Indonesia Defeats the Philippines, Keeps One Foot in the ASEAN Championship Semifinals

JAKARTA, KOMPAS – Indonesia has stepped one foot into the semifinals of the ASEAN U-23 Championship after overcoming the challenge from the Philippines, 1-0, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, Friday (18/7/2025). The surprise from the Philippines only applied to Malaysia. The "Garuda Muda" team played more cleverly by restricting the movement of three key players from the Philippines.

The sole goal that secured Indonesia's victory was the result of an own goal by Filipino midfielder Jaime Domingo Rosquillo in the 23rd minute. Rosquillo misjudged a long ball from Robi Darwis's throw-in. The ball, which was headed by Rosquillo, ended up heading towards the Philippine goal without being anticipated by goalkeeper Nicholas Guimaraes.

The own goal seemed to be a disgrace for Guimaraes, who had performed brilliantly, making eight important saves.

Despite dominating with 65 percent possession and eight shots on target, the "Garuda Muda" players found it difficult to score from open play situations. This was due to the Philippine players defending very tightly and disciplined in a 4-4-2 formation.

Indonesia's efforts to penetrate the Philippines' defense through the wing sector have indeed yielded results on several occasions. However, the less stable final resolution and Guimaraes, who is currently in top form, thwarted a series of golden opportunities.

"They (the Philippines) defended too deep. But we anticipated this by moving the ball as quickly as possible. We were fortunate to capitalize on a set piece," said Indonesian winger Rayhan Hanan after the match.

As in the match against Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia is more dangerous when initiating attacks from the wing sectors. Meanwhile, efforts to build attacks from the central area are still hindered by poor decision-making and inadequate finishing.

On the other hand, the Philippines' efforts to optimize a quick counterattack, as seen when defeating Malaysia, were a complete failure. Indonesia's U-23 team coach, Gerald Vanenburg, anticipated the Philippines' playing style by changing his team's formation from 4-3-3 against Brunei to 4-2-3-1.

Vanenburg employed a double pivot system to thwart Philippine counterattacks and build attacks from the back. Indonesia's two center-backs, Kadek Arel and Kakang Rudiyanto, received extra strength as one of the two pivots was instructed to line up with them.

Toni Firmansyah was tasked with playing this role. He often assisted Kadek and Kakang in building attacks with short passes.

Another factor that hindered the Philippines' counterattack was Vanenburg's decision to overhaul his defensive lineup. The Dutch coach made a total of three changes to the player arrangement compared to the match against Brunei.

Vanenburg replaced Achmar Maulana Syarif with Alfharezzi Buffon. Muhammad Ferarri, who faced relatively no significant challenges against Brunei, was rested and replaced by Kadek. Subsequently, Brandon Scheunemann's position was filled by Kakang.

The decision to change the composition of the three defenders paid off handsomely. Alfharezzi justified Vanenburg's trust by not allowing the Filipino wing player duo, Javier Mariona and Uriel Dalapo, to maneuver freely. The wingback from Borneo FC is very strong in one-on-one duels.

Alfharezzi was very aggressive in maintaining defense, as evidenced by his total of three tackles throughout the match. He became the second Indonesian player with the most tackles in this game. The first position for the number of tackles was held by Robi Darwis, who made five tackles.

Kadek, who has gained considerable experience with the senior national team, appeared very calm as Indonesia's last line of defense this time. Kadek is aware of the danger of allowing the Philippines' forward, Otu Bisong, to receive the ball in the final third.

Therefore, Kadek played without compromise, immediately sweeping the ball away to prevent Otu from quickly gaining control of it. This move made Kadek the player with the most clearances in the match, with four.

Thanks to the additional three points from the Philippines, Indonesia has now one foot in the semifinals. The victory from two matches has brought the "Garuda Muda" to a total of six points. Meanwhile, the Philippines and Malaysia are trailing in second and third place with a collection of three points.

To secure a ticket to the semifinals, Indonesia needs at least a draw against Malaysia on Monday (21/7/2025).