Thailand U23 vs Philippines U23 form
Despite finishing top of Group C and reaching the semi-finals, the Thai U23 team faced considerable criticism from fans and the domestic media. Many argued that the young War Elephants failed to demonstrate the qualities of a championship contender, particularly in their hard-fought 0-0 draw against Myanmar U23 in the final match.
With immense pressure weighing on their shoulders, the Thai U23 team entered their clash with their long-time rivals, the Indonesian U23 team, with high determination. In fact, the young team from the Land of Smiles delivered a performance that exceeded expectations. Unfortunately, their poor finishing cost them dearly.
Despite having less possession, the U23 Thailand team created more dangerous opportunities. The team, under the guidance of coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakul, even opened the scoring in the 60th minute thanks to a moment of brilliance from their star striker Yotsakorn.
However, with only about 6 minutes of regular time remaining, a moment of defensive lapse prevented the Thai U23 team from maintaining their advantage. Entering extra time, the young Thai team dominated the home side and had numerous chances to finish the game, but squandered them, ultimately succumbing in a tense penalty shootout.
Having to stop before reaching the final, disappointment was inevitable for Thanawut and his teammates. Nevertheless, the U23 Thailand team is still aiming for victory in the third-place match to offer some consolation to their fans.
The task doesn't seem too difficult to accomplish, given that the U23 Philippines team isn't a particularly tough opponent. In their 1-2 defeat against U23 Vietnam, coach Garrath McPherson's players revealed several weaknesses in their technical skills. Despite possessing many physically strong players, the U23 Philippines' defense frequently lost in aerial duels.
The poor positioning and slow response of the attacking players in situations requiring quick closing down by the teammates further up the field put Guimaraes' goal under threat on several occasions. If the Vietnamese U23 strikers had taken their chances better, the Philippines U23 team might not have lost by just one goal.
After being eliminated in the semi-finals, the mental state will likely have a significant impact on both sides' performance. If they maintain their focus and determination to win, the bronze medal will probably be within reach of the young Thai team.
Team news for Thailand U23 vs Philippines U23
Thailand U23: Full squad available.
Philippines U23: Defender Rosquillo is unavailable due to suspension.
Predicted lineups for U23 Thailand vs U23 Philippines
U23 Thailand: Sarawat, Suksakit, Ratree, Boonlha, Burapha, Prahanth, Wandee, Sienkrthok, Jensen, Otton, Noi Wong
U23 Philippines: Guimaraes, Muens, Leddel, Merino, Banatao, Reyes Pena, Carino, Lucero Luis, Tanigco, Caraig, Mariona
Prediction: 2-0
Source: https://baovanhoa.vn/the-thao/nhan-dinh-tran-dau-u23-thai-lan-vs-u23-philippines-20h00-ngay-287-chien-thang-an-ui-156744.html
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