THE Philippines put up a brave stand but eventually lost to Thailand, 3-1, in the battle for third place in the 2025 Asean U23 Championships Mandiri Cup on July 28, 2025 at the Bung Karno Stadium in Indonesia.
Phanthamit Prapanth gave the Thais, who lost to Indonesia via penalties in the semis, the lead just before half-time and Sittha Boonlha doubled the count in the 74th.
Our U23 squad’s fourth-place finish in the Asean tournament is a historic first and a clear sign of our team’s upward trajectory.
PFF president John Gutierrez
However, the PHL U23 refused to surrender and Otu Banatao got the Pinoys on board with a sweet header in the 79th and he nearly got the equalizer but another header in the 85th hit the woodwork.
“Congratulations to Thailand on winning the battle for third place. Our u23 squad’s fourth-place finish in the ASEAN tournament is a historic first and a clear sign of our team’s upward trajectory,” said PFF president John Gutierrez.
With the PHL’s still pressing for an equalizer, the Thais got the insurance goal on a counterattack to seal the win.
“We commend our players, coaches, staff, and management for making our nation proud. This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the passionate support of our stakeholders, sponsors, parents, and every Filipino football fan,” said Gutierrez.