In a high-stakes encounter that highlighted both the promise and pitfalls of youthful exuberance, Indonesia’s dream of ending their long wait for a maiden ASEAN Championship title was dashed by a resilient Philippines side that made the most of their opponents’ ill-discipline to prevail 1-0 and book their spot in the semifinals.
Costly Red Card Swings Momentum
The turning point came just three minutes before halftime when Muhammad Ferarri, Indonesia’s captain and two-goal hero against Laos, saw red for an errant elbow on Philippines defender Amani Aguinaldo. While there appeared to be minimal contact, Ferarri’s reckless swing of the arm left the referee with little choice but to give him his marching orders.
This was the second time in three matches that indiscipline had come back to bite Indonesia, after Marselino Ferdinan was sent off in their 3-3 draw with Laos for two unnecessary challenges. On that occasion they were able to salvage a point, but against a dogged Philippines team fighting for their tournament lives, Ferarri’s red card would prove too much to overcome.
Marselino’s Valiant Effort in Vain
To their credit, Indonesia refused to let their numerical disadvantage dampen their attacking spirit, with the mercurial Marselino at the heart of their efforts. Clearly eager to atone for his own red card against Laos, the winger produced a series of darting runs and fierce shots that required smart saves from Philippines keeper Quincy Kammeraad to keep his clean sheet intact.
Penalty Seals Philippines’ Progress
But just past the hour mark, Philippines got the breakthrough their pressure had been threatening when Bjørn Martin Kristensen converted from the spot after Dony Tri Pamungkas was adjudged to have handled Paul Tabinas‘ cross into the box. It was a bitter blow for Indonesia, who had defended stoutly despite being a man down.
As legs tired and spaces opened up, Philippines had several golden opportunities to put the result beyond doubt. Yet a combination of last-ditch Indonesian defending, especially from Pamungkas, and poor finishing meant they had to settle for a nervy 1-0 win.
Contrasting Emotions at Full-Time
The final whistle sparked contrasting emotions, with Philippines celebrating a return to the ASEAN Championship semifinals for the first time since 2018, while Indonesia were left to rue what might have been had they kept all eleven men on the pitch. For all their undoubted talent, Shin Tae-yong’s young charges must learn to harness their passion without crossing the line if they are to end their nation’s agonizing wait for regional glory.
When youthful promise is tempered by hard-earned discipline, this Indonesia team could take some stopping. But until then, heartbreak may remain a familiar companion.
As for Philippines, an unenviable semifinal date with defending champions Thailand awaits. But after showing great resilience to emerge from the “Group of Death” having drawn their first three games, they will feel quietly confident of springing an upset against a Thai side that has not been at its vintage best thus far. Whatever the outcome, the stage is set for a fascinating encounter between two teams embodying very different footballing qualities – experience versus effervescence, circumspection versus courage.
But just past the hour mark, Philippines got the breakthrough their pressure had been threatening when Bjørn Martin Kristensen converted from the spot after Dony Tri Pamungkas was adjudged to have handled Paul Tabinas‘ cross into the box. It was a bitter blow for Indonesia, who had defended stoutly despite being a man down.
As legs tired and spaces opened up, Philippines had several golden opportunities to put the result beyond doubt. Yet a combination of last-ditch Indonesian defending, especially from Pamungkas, and poor finishing meant they had to settle for a nervy 1-0 win.
Contrasting Emotions at Full-Time
The final whistle sparked contrasting emotions, with Philippines celebrating a return to the ASEAN Championship semifinals for the first time since 2018, while Indonesia were left to rue what might have been had they kept all eleven men on the pitch. For all their undoubted talent, Shin Tae-yong’s young charges must learn to harness their passion without crossing the line if they are to end their nation’s agonizing wait for regional glory.
When youthful promise is tempered by hard-earned discipline, this Indonesia team could take some stopping. But until then, heartbreak may remain a familiar companion.
As for Philippines, an unenviable semifinal date with defending champions Thailand awaits. But after showing great resilience to emerge from the “Group of Death” having drawn their first three games, they will feel quietly confident of springing an upset against a Thai side that has not been at its vintage best thus far. Whatever the outcome, the stage is set for a fascinating encounter between two teams embodying very different footballing qualities – experience versus effervescence, circumspection versus courage.
