Sylhet: The Philippines smartly qualified for the semifinal of the 5^th version of the six-nation Bangabandhu Gold Cup International Football Tournament eliminating hapless Laos 3-1 in their opening Group B match at Sylhet District Stadium here on Wednesday evening.

After the day’s match, hosts Bangladesh also assured the semifinal berth from Group B at the coffin of Laos with one match to spare against stronger Philippines on Friday to decide the group champions. 

With the day’s feat, the Philippines topped the Group B list securing full three points from one match by virtue of better goal margin (3-1), hosts Bangladesh were in the 2^nd slot with three points from one match due to poor goal difference (1-0) while Laos eliminated from the meet empty hand losing both other group affairs.