The Philippine men's national football team started the AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup on the wrong foot, losing to Cambodia, 3-2, for the first time since 2002 at Morodok Techo National Stadium in Phnom Penh Tuesday evening.

Reung Bunheing opened the scoring at the 16th minute before Orn Chanpolin made it 2-0 for Cambodia  four minutes later.

Kanshiro Daniels tied it up for the Azkals after scoring in the 41st and 55th minutes.

But Bunheing then scored another goal in the 59th minute to preserve the win.

Jarvey Gayoso tried to equalize in added time but his header was saved.

This is the first major tournament for head coach Josep Ferre for the Azkals since his appointment last 8 December.

The Azkals will play at the Rizal Memorial Stadium next on 23 December against Brunei.