BANGKOK — The Philippine U-22 football team is determined to bounce back after a heartbreaking 0-2 semifinal defeat to Vietnam at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. On Thursday, Dec. 18, the Filipinos will face Malaysia in the bronze-medal match, with the chance to secure the country’s best-ever finish in men’s football at the regional meet.

Coach Garrath McPherson acknowledged the pain of the semifinal loss but emphasized the team’s resilience. “This (semis loss) hurts because this means everything, to the players and to the country. You could see the emotion, they gave every last ounce of energy, mentally and physically,” he said.

Building character through disappointment

McPherson praised the team’s strong character and outlook for the next challenge. “This group has strong character. We’ll reflect on how close we came, but we don’t stop here. The day after, we march forward, one foot in front of the other, keep moving forward, keep growing, towards the bronze medal match,” he added.

The squad will seek to translate the lessons of the semifinals into a focused and determined performance against Malaysia. The opportunity to earn a podium finish offers redemption and the chance to make history for Philippine football.

Chasing a historic milestone

This deep stage of the competition marks only the second time the Philippines has reached the semifinals in SEAG men’s football. The first was in 1991 in Manila, when a team led by Norman Fegidero contested the bronze but fell 0-2 to Singapore to finish fourth.

A win against Malaysia would not only secure a medal but also set a new benchmark for the country in men’s football at the SEA Games. The U-22 team’s journey reflects growth and a renewed ambition to establish the Philippines as a regional contender.