The Brunei Darussalam under-20 national team on Sunday endured a disappointing end in the 2025 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Under-20 Asian Cup qualification after their group stage exit ended with a winless record.
The Young Wasps lost 4-0 to already-eliminated Philippines in their final Group ‘H’ match as their quest for qualifying ended with a third consecutive defeat.
It is not a repeat of the double-digit defeats to Iraq and Thailand but Brunei ended the qualification tournament failed to register a single goal let alone a point.
Brunei under-20 head coach Aminuddin Jumat’s young charges conceded a whopping 32 goals, easily making it the worst performance in their qualifying history of the continental meet.
The Young Azkals raced into the lead in the fourth minute as Otu Banatao headed past Brunei under-20 goalkeeper Wa’ie Haziq following an Ethan Smith cross.
The young Bruneians had kept the dominant Filipinos largely at bay until midfielder Cyrelle Saut struck in the 50th minute despite seeing his initial effort blocked by Hakimee Toney.
Philippines under-20 defender Bacchus Ekberg rifled a low drive from range to make it 3-0 two minutes later having been set up by Justin Ogur.
With Brunei under-20 goalkeeper Dzul Ikram given game time, Josep Ferre’s young charges compounded their opponent’s woes as forward Trez Marinas leapt to head home Jhon Diaz’s corner two minutes from time. – FADHIL YUNUS
