THE confidence of the Philippine Under 23 national men’s football team is growing.
Head coach Garrath McPherson said this after the squad made history on Monday, when it pulled off a 2-0 triumph over the Brunei U23 side in their final Group A match of the ASEAN U23 Championship Mandiri Cup.
“Momentum is crucial in tournament football, and we’ve successfully ridden the wave of emotions this past seven days. The team has grown in confidence with every game, winning tonight provides more confidence,” said McPherson.
McPherson talked about their latest win during a post-match press conference at the Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Wing forward Javier Mariona opened the scoring in the 20th minute with a well-taken penalty kick, for the Philippines.
It was awarded after Brunei’s Wafiq Danish fouled Jax Peña inside the box.
Following numerous on-target shots, the Philippines got its insurance goal in the 85th minute when Tuloy Foundation’s Harry Nunez skillfully converted a pass from Mariona.
“We have achieved all of this with only a one week training camp leading in, I am proud and happy for the players and staff. I trust the supporters back home are proud of the character and spirit of this group,” added McPherson
Nuñez was named Man of the Match.
The Philippines went on to finish second in Group A, with their second triumph in three matches.
They are behind group winner Indonesia, which had a scoreless draw with Malaysia.
The Filipino booters now wait for the results of the final fixtures in Groups B and C as they have a strong chance of securing a historic first-ever semifinal appearance in the ASEAN U23 Championship.
