The Philippine men’s U-23 football team delivered a spirited performance in the ASEAN U23 Championship bronze medal match, but fell short against a sharp Thailand squad, in a thrilling contest Monday night at Indonesia.
Although the Philippines held their ground, Thailand struck first in the early minutes of the game, when Phanthamit Prapanth coolly finished a low cross from Sittha Boolha.
In the second half, Thailand doubled their lead through a powerful left-footed strike by Siraphop Wandee.
But the Philippines fought back as Otu Banatao gave Filipino fans a reason to breathe with a looping header making the game, 2-1.
As the game goes heated, Banatao didn’t give up and almost tied the game with another header, but the ball hit the post.
Right after that close call, Thailand quickly launched a counterattack, and substitute player Seksan Ratree scored, putting the game out of reach for the Philippines with a score of 3-1.
Despite the loss, the fourth-place finish is the Philippines’ best-ever result in the tournament.
The team will now shift their focus to the upcoming AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers and the Southeast Asian Games.