SEA Games: PH beats Indonesia in men’s football, reaches semis
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Philippine men’s U-22 football team react during its game against Indonesia in the 33rd SEA Games in Thailand. –PFF PHOTO
BANGKOK—The Philippine men’s U-22 football team advanced to the semifinals of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games with a 1-0 win over Indonesia on Monday at 700th Anniversary Stadium in Chiang Mai.
Otu Banatao’s header shortly before halftime spelled the difference as the Philippines ended a long semis drought in the sport considered as the most anticipated in the biennial meet.
The last time the Philippines made the last four was in the 1991 edition held in Manila, back when senior players were allowed to participate.
This time, it will be the young footballers who will try to make more history when they take on the top team of either Group A or Group B on Dec. 15 at Rajamangala Stadium here.
Thailand and Timor-Leste are tied for the lead while Singapore is at the bottom of Group A. Malaysia and Vietnam are also level while Laos is already eliminated from contention in Group B.
Handled by Australian coach Garrath McPherson, the Philippines topped Group C on six points after winning all two matches, starting with a 2-0 victory over Myanmar last Friday.
Banatao delivered the only goal of the match two minutes into the first-half stoppage to put the Philippines ahead and never looked back.
Indonesia, playing for the first time in the Games, tried to equalize but the Philippine defense made sure that the scoreline would stand until the end.
