Bacolod City: Substitute Jovin Bedic expressed delight in scoring for the Philippines for the first time in the AFF Suzuki Cup, saying his late strike that helped the Azkals salvage a 1-1 draw with holders Thailand was a dream come true. 

Coming on for Stephan Palla in the 78th minute, the 28-year-old striker combined with Patrick Strauss before firing a right footed effort that bounced off the post and rolled in despite the valiant effort of Thai custodian Chatchai Budprom to prevent the ball from crossing the line nine minutes from time at Panaad Stadium.

“As a football player, you dream of scoring for the Philippines,” said Bedic. “Thailand are the favorites in the tournament. It was a big game. I’m proud of what our team was able to achieve tonight.” 

Bedic, who plays for Kaya Iloilo in the Philippines Football League, was an unused sub in wins over Singapore and Timor Leste, but with the Azkals chasing the game after Supachai Jaided gave the visitors the lead in the 56th minute, Swedish coach Sven Goran Eriksson needed another attacking option to unlock the Thai defense. 

“The whole team was working hard but with Thailand ahead, we knew it was going to be difficult,” said Bedic. “But coach told me to prepare so I just grabbed the opportunity in this match because I knew I needed to step up.” 

"More than anything it was about desire and refusing to lose. There was a combination with me and Strauss and when I turned I already saw the goal, and as a striker, I knew I had to shoot because we needed a goal."  

The result meant the Philippines and Thailand are on course of reaching the semifinals with seven points each, although the five-time champions are ahead on goal difference. The draw also meant Indonesia are no longer in the race for semifinal spot as they face the Philippines on Sunday. 

Singapore, 6-1 winners over Timor Leste last Saturday, still have a chance to sneak into the next round, but the Lions would have to get a result away against Thailand in Bangkok on Sunday to stand a chance of a semifinal spot. 

“We still want to get the three points against Indonesia,” said Bedic.