Phl U23 squad reaches new heights

The Philippine U23 men’s football team believes it has made its mark in the ASEAN Championship in Indonesia by making it to the semifinal for the first time.

Head coach Garrath McPherson said making it to the knockout stages is already a huge feat for them as this was their first appearance since the tournament began in 2005.

The Philippines is facing defending champion Vietnam at press time at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.

“It’s a historic moment and one that we are planning ahead for and had believed in. It’s nice to arrive at the knockout stages,” McPherson said.

“Our plans stay the same: Provide exposure to our players to showcase their qualities and showcase an attitude that the country can unite behind.”

Regardless of whether they win or lose, the Nationals will have a chance to vie for a podium finish.

Stunning the Vietnamese will assure the Philippines of at least a silver medal and can even vie for the gold against the winner between Indonesia and Thailand.

Losing in the semis will relegate the Filipinos to a bronze medal match with either the Thais or the Indonesians.

McPherson expects his boys to play their hearts out as Filipino fans cheer them on in their remaining games.

“The Filipino people are proud and passionate. They love their country and support their national teams,” McPherson said.

“We’ve seen a wave of support through social media and that support means a lot to us, it means a lot to the players. I’m happy that the fans get to celebrate what we have achieved so far.”