"We played three matches in the group stage and had a day off before the semi-finals. The team is receiving great support from home and that gives the players strength," said U23 Philippines head coach Garrath McPherson.
Head Coach Garrath McPherson
U23 Philippines fell into Group A with hosts Indonesia and Malaysia but excellently won a ticket to the semi-finals of the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship as the second-placed team with the best record. In the opening match, Coach McPherson's team played defensive counter-attacks and beautifully defeated U23 Malaysia with a score of 2-0.
Against U23 Indonesia, the young talents of the Philippines continued to maintain a defensive style of play but were unlucky to lose 0-1 due to an own goal. However, Mr. McPherson and his team still easily defeated U23 Brunei and thereby secured a place in the semi-finals.
Coach McPherson also admitted that the Philippines were not highly regarded at first, but the team has shown progress through each match. He said that the U23 Philippines team has many players who have played internationally, participated in the AFF Cup 2024, have good skills, tactical vision and impressive dribbling ability.
“I am proud of the team spirit and the effort of the players. We have a balanced squad with 23 players who are ready to contribute,” the Australian strategist said.
Commenting on U23 Vietnam, Mr. McPherson said: "U23 Vietnam has many players who have played for the national team and played in the national championship. U23 Vietnam is well organized, especially dangerous in set pieces. They are a very high-quality team!"
Source: https://nld.com.vn/hlv-u23-philippines-chung-toi-san-sang-thi-dau-cong-hien-khi-dau-u23-viet-nam-196250724191819633.htm
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