Filipino-Swiss midfielder Randy Schneider made a resounding debut for the Philippine men’s national football team in a 4-1 win against Maldives at New Clark City for the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.
Newcomer Randy Schneider made sure to make his presence immediately felt for the Philippine men’s national football team (PMNFT). He contributed a goal and an assist in the country's 4-1 win over Maldives to open their campaign in Group A of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers on Tuesday.
In front of more than 3,000 fans at New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac, Schneider lived up to the billing as he directly influenced three of the country’s four goals against a gutsy Maldives side.
Schneider first made an impact when he had a fabulous first touch on pass to Bjorn Kristensen at the 19th minute to pad the Philippines’ lead to 2-nil.
But his moment of the match came late in the second half when the Philippines was looking for breathing room anew after Maldives scored off of Ali Fasir close to the hour mark of the match, which threatened the home team’s three points, 2-1.
Fellow youngster Sandro Reyes gave the Fil-Swiss booter the perfect opportunity at the 77th mark, as he skillfully maneuvered inside the box past the Maldives keeper to restore order and the Philippines’ two-goal cushion.
Schneider then converted on another good first touch en route to another insurance goal by Reyes, which was assisted on by another debutant Josef Baccay in added time.
After the match, Schneider spoke about being able to help the team.
“I think with my goal and assist, I helped them a lot,” said Schneider.
He also shared his thoughts on making his debut on home soil, where a good number of fans came out to support.
“It’s amazing… Home debut, 4-1. The goal is not necessary. But we’ll keep going and yeah, we’re on to the next one.” said the 23-year-old.
“I’m happy that [the fans] all came today, and next time in June… In front of you, it’s amazing to play.” he added.
Of note, both Schneider and Baccay only received their Philippine passports earlier this year, which helped them become eligible to play for the national team.
Jefferson Tabinas was the other goal scorer for the Philippines after finding the mark at the 6th minute mark to give the home team the advantage almost from the get-go.
The Philippines does make a good start to their campaign to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup with three full points before they face top-seed Tajikistan in June.