MANILA, Philippines – Philippine men’s U-22 football team and the national women’s team came up short against opponents Thailand and Myanmar, respectively, on Tuesday, August 22 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

The men’s team entered a do-or-die match with third seeded Thailand, as they aimed to garner a win to keep their chances for a semifinals berth. However, the men in red bowed out to their Thai counterparts, 2-0, and are now out of medal contention.

Awin by the women’s team against Myanmar would have assured them of the bronze medal finish, but the Burmese crushed the Filipinas, 6-0. 

PH men blanked by Thailand

Philippines kicked off the game with a chance in the 24th minute when Jarvey Gayoso dribbled quickly to create an opportunity, but his shot missed the net and hit the post. Four minutes later, Montree Promsawat made the first goal of the match with a free header that gave Thailand the 1-0 lead. 

Thailand continued to dominate the possession as they were awarded 5 corners, which the Philippine backline was able to successfully defend. However, the next goal came during the added time, as Thai forward Sittichok Kannoo delivered with a right foot volley that went past Joyel and into the back of the net, 2-0.

The second half resulted in a stalemate, as the Philippines was unable to equalize the score. Thailand continued to press the Philippines, while the nationals had a difficulty containing the ball. The best chance of the game for the Philippines came in the 83rd minute when Jeremiah Borlongan attempted a cross in the penalty area, but it was blocked by Thai defender Worawut Namvech. 

This loss puts the Philippines at 1-3-0 record with 3 points and a -7 goal difference in Group B of the 2017 SEA Games.

In their final match of the elimination round, the men’s team will face Timor Leste, which has already been eliminated from the race to the semifinals on Thursday, August 24.

The women’s match was over just as it began as Myanmar managed 4 goals in the first 20 minutes.

In the second half, Myanmar continued their offensive threat, but Inna Palacios was able to make saves in the 71st and 75th minutes. The Burmese sealed the win with the goals made in the dying moments of the match.

The Philippines is still within reach of a bronze medal finish, as they now have a 1-2-0 record in the league with 3 points and a -8 goal difference.

The women’s team will face 1st seed Thailand in their last match of the 2017 SEA Games on Thursday, August 24. – Rappler.com