By Enzo Lucindo. Images courtesy of M1 International.
Maharlika FC, owned by Kaohsiung-based M1 International, secured a convincing 5–0 win over Philippine Army FC at Rizal Memorial Stadium on Sunday evening, Oct. 4. The win gives Maharlika a much-needed confidence boost ahead of its crucial encounter with Aguilas UMak FC on Sunday, October 12, at 8:30 pm. Davao Aguilas UMak FC is a formidable league rival that has consistently gone toe-to-toe with Maharlika in recent seasons.
Building on their recent wins, head coach Moon Hong said Maharlika aimed to carry its momentum into the match while staying true to its playing style and maintaining its standard of play regardless of the opposition.
Kira Yamamoto scored the opening goal from distance in the third minute, establishing an early advantage for the team. Shortly after, Ren Nagamatsu scored in the 15th minute from a delivery by Michael Kedman on the left flank. By this point, Philippine Army FC was struggling to sustain possession due to Maharlika’s consistent press.
Continuing Maharlika’s dominant performance, Nagamatsu scored his second goal of the match in the 38th minute with a powerful header toward the far post, converting a set piece awarded after Philippine Army conceded a foul just outside the penalty area.
Just before halftime, Ji Eonhak, the previous match’s man of the match, scored the fourth goal with the Philippine Army goalkeeper caught too far off his line, giving Maharlika a commanding 4–0 lead at the break.
Maharlika showed no signs of easing off in the second half, continuing to push forward despite the scoreline. Known for its effective corner routines and threat from set pieces, the team capitalized on another opportunity in the 77th minute. A well-executed short-corner routine created an opening in the box, with Ivan Ouano heading the ball into the net. The goal capped Maharlika’s dominant display, sealing a 5–0 victory.
Maharlika’s win reflected the team’s success in turning sustained pressure into results. The high press disrupted Philippine Army’s attempts to build possession, while well-executed set pieces helped extend the lead. With goals from multiple players and a clean sheet, the performance highlighted the team’s collective discipline.
The team’s approach was echoed by man of the match Ji Eonhak, who shared the coaching staff’s emphasis on maintaining intensity throughout the game. “… always have a high pace and then always go forward and pressure the enemy,” he said, underscoring the attacking philosophy behind Maharlika’s performance.
Following this win, Maharlika FC will look to carry its momentum into its next fixture against Aguilas UMak FC. The challenge ahead will demand the same attacking intensity and discipline, making the encounter a test of whether Maharlika can build on this performance and secure another positive result.
