Thailand secured third place at the ASEAN U23 Mandiri Cup 2025 with a confident 3-1 win over the Philippines in the third-place match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta.
The Philippines, making history with their first-ever top-four finish at the tournament, started with Nicholas Guimarães in goal and Gavin Muens wearing the captain’s armband. Thailand, meanwhile, fielded their prolific forward Yotsakorn Burapha in attack, with Sittha Boonlha leading the team as captain.
From the opening whistle, the War Elephants displayed tactical discipline and strong composure in both attack and defense, effectively neutralizing the Philippines’ offensive efforts.
Thailand’s persistence paid off in the 28th minute when Phanthamit Praphanth, wearing jersey number 14, broke the deadlock with a composed finish to give his side the lead.
Despite the Azkals intensifying their efforts to equalize, Thailand’s defense remained resolute, taking a 1-0 advantage into halftime.
The second half saw both sides pressing for goals, with the Philippines looking to mount a comeback. However, it was Thailand who struck again—Siraphop Wandee extended their lead in the 74th minute with a well-placed effort to make it 2-0.
The Philippines responded with renewed urgency and were rewarded in the 79th minute when Otu Bisong found the back of the net, offering a glimmer of hope for the Azkals.
But Thailand extinguished any chance of a comeback just seven minutes later. Seksan Ratree netted a third goal for the Thais in the 86th minute, sealing the 3-1 scoreline and confirming Thailand’s place on the tournament podium.
It was a spirited performance from both teams, but Thailand’s experience and clinical execution secured them a deserved third-place finish.
Credit Photo : FA Thailand
