Latest U.23 Southeast Asian tournament schedule: Philippines continues to shock strong team Indonesia?

The match between U.23 Philippines and U.23 Indonesia at 8:00 p.m. on July 18 in Group A of the 2025 Southeast Asian U.23 tournament is of particular interest to football fans. In theory, Indonesia is the 'upper hand'. But if we look back at what the Philippines did against Malaysia, the unexpected scenario can completely repeat itself.

U.23 Indonesia is under more pressure than Philippines

In the opening match of the 2025 U.23 Southeast Asian Championship, U.23 Philippines created the first shock when defeating U.23 Malaysia with a score of 2-0. Not only did they win, they also demonstrated a scientific , disciplined and well-organized playing style. In more than 90 minutes of play, U.23 Philippines did not control the ball much, but each attack was really sharp. Specifically, the Philippines held the ball less than half of the opponent (30% compared to 70% of Malaysia), creating 6 shots (while Malaysia had 16 shots). Notably, 19-year-old striker Banatao Bisong is emerging as an extremely dangerous spearhead of U.23 Philippines, with speed and cool finishing ability. Bisong was the one who shined with a double goal in the first half.

On the contrary, U.23 Indonesia started more enthusiastically when they crushed U.23 Brunei with an unbelievable score of 8-0. Naturalized striker of Dutch origin Jens Raven scored 6 goals and became the focus of the media. With even strength in all three lines, along with a deep squad, the team from the archipelago country is considered the top candidate for the championship of the U.23 Southeast Asia tournament this time.

U.23 Philippines caused a big surprise when defeating U.23 Malaysia in the opening match.

PHOTO: AFF

However, in a match between a strong attacking team like Indonesia and a sharp counter-attacking team like the Philippines, any scenario can happen. In the match, U.23 Indonesia will most likely choose an attacking style to seek victory and maintain the advantage before the final round (against U.23 Malaysia), the players of the archipelago country will push up and expose the space behind. This is the opportunity for U.23 Philippines to deploy counter-attacks, the weapon that helped them defeat U.23 Malaysia despite giving up control of the ball to their opponents.

One thing worth noting is that the pressure is currently on U.23 Indonesia. After an easy victory over Brunei, they are forced to continue to maintain their form and satisfy their fans, especially when playing at home. On the other hand, U.23 Philippines has a light mentality, and this could make them even more dangerous.

To defend the throne, what problem do U.23 Vietnam and coach Kim Sang-sik need to solve?

U.23 Indonesia is strong, that is indisputable. But that strength can become a double-edged sword if the team from the archipelago plays hastily. U.23 Philippines has proven that they are not "underdogs" in this year's regional tournament. And when they have the necessary confidence, this team can absolutely continue to create surprises.

At 8pm on July 18, when the opening whistle blows, U.23 Indonesia will have to prove that their true strength lies not only in the 8-0 victory over Brunei. As for U.23 Philippines, if they continue to maintain their tactical identity and tenacity, who knows, they might be the team that once again surprises the whole region.

Watch the full 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Football Championship Mandiri Cup™ on FPT Play, visit http://fptplay.vn

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/lich-thi-dau-giai-u23-dong-nam-a-moi-nhat-philippines-tiep-tuc-gay-soc-truoc-doi-manh-indonesia-185250717164949095.htm