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The Philippines are heavily favored by pixiejars.com as they kick off their Asian Cup 2027 qualifying campaign against the Maldives.
6:00 PM, March 25th, 2025, Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers
Match Preview: Philippines vs Maldives
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
This upcoming clash between the Philippines and the Maldives promises an intriguing encounter, with both teams eager to bounce back from recent setbacks. The historical head-to-head record firmly favors the Philippines. In their last four meetings, the Azkals have secured three victories and one draw, highlighting their dominance over the Maldives, who have yet to taste victory against them.
The Philippines boasts a superior goal difference in these encounters, averaging two goals per game compared to the Maldives’ single goal. This underscores the Azkals’ offensive prowess and their ability to consistently find the back of the net against their opponents. Furthermore, their impressive scoring streak of nine consecutive matches showcases their consistent attacking threat and efficient finishing.
Areas of Concern
Despite their attacking strength, the Philippines have shown a vulnerability in starting matches slowly. This tendency to take time to find their rhythm could offer the Maldives a glimmer of hope if they can capitalize on early opportunities. Meanwhile, the Maldives arrive in less than ideal form following a recent defeat. Averaging a single goal against the Philippines historically, their offensive capabilities appear limited. Their defensive frailties are also a concern, conceding an average of two goals per game against the Azkals.
Overall, the Philippines’ dominant head-to-head record and consistent goal-scoring form make them the clear favorites in this matchup. However, their slow starts could be exploited by the Maldives, who will be searching for an upset.
Predictions: Philippines vs Maldives
Goal Predictions
In their last five matches, the Philippines have scored a total of 12 goals (2.4 goals per game), while the Maldives have also netted 12 times (2.4 goals per game). Across their last five encounters, a total of 17 goals have been scored (3.4 goals per game). However, considering the current form and defensive vulnerabilities, this match is likely to see under three goals.
Corner Kick Predictions
Based on statistics from their last five matches, the Philippines have earned a total of 44 corners (8.8 per game), while the Maldives have a slightly higher average with 47 corners (9.4 per game). Their most recent clash resulted in just six corners. Therefore, we anticipate a relatively low number of corner kicks, likely under nine.
Yellow Card Predictions
Over their past five matches, the Philippines have accumulated 24 yellow cards (4.8 per game), while the Maldives have received 18 yellow cards (3.6 per game). In their last five encounters, both teams combined have received only five yellow cards (1 per game). Based on this data, it’s reasonable to predict fewer than four yellow cards in this match.
Predicted Scoreline
Philippines 2-0 Maldives
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Team News
Both the Philippines and the Maldives are expected to have full-strength squads available for this crucial qualifier, with no significant injuries reported.
Predicted Lineups
Philippines: Q. Kammeraad (GK), A. Aguinaldo, M. Kempter, A. Ugelvik, P. Tabinas, M. Baldisimo, Z. Bailey, A. Monis, J. Gayoso, S. Reyes, J. Mariona.
Maldives: Hussain Shareef (GK), Ahmed Numaan, Samooh Ali, Hussain Sifaau, Ahmed Aiham, Haisham Hassan, Ali Fasir, Hamza Mohamed, Ibrahim Aisam, Ibrahim Mahudhee, Mohamed Naim.
Form and Head-to-Head Record
Recent Form
Philippines: In their last five matches, the Philippines have won two, drawn two, and lost one. They have scored six goals and conceded six.
Maldives: Over their last five matches, the Maldives have registered one win, one draw, and three losses. They have scored five goals and conceded eight.
Head-to-Head Record
Overall: In their last five meetings, the Philippines have won three, drawn one, and lost one. The Maldives have won one, drawn one, and lost three.
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