Defending champions Indonesia suffer shocking defeat, Philippines advance at SEA Games

Scorer: Banatao 45’+1.

Indonesia brought their strongest squad to Thailand to defend the SEA Games gold medal they won in Cambodia in 2023. They did not have to compete in the first round, giving them a chance to study the Philippines in their 2–0 win over Myanmar. However, coach Indra Sjafri and his team endured a difficult 90 minutes against a disciplined Philippine side that made the most of their opportunities.

Indonesia had their first clear chance in the 7th minute, but Dutch-born striker Mauro Zijlstra missed the target in a one-on-one situation with goalkeeper Nicholas Guimaraes. The defending champions then dominated possession and pushed the Philippines deep into their own half. In the 28th minute, center-back Muhammad Ferarri surged forward and unleashed a long-range shot from about 35 meters that forced Guimaraes to punch it away.

Despite controlling the ball, Indonesia failed to produce any coherent attacking patterns. Their players mostly relied on strength and pace, but the Philippines were not easily bullied physically. Instead, they sat deep and waited to counterattack through the press-resistance of playmaker Sandro Reyes and their speedy wide players.

The breakthrough came in the first minute of first-half stoppage time, from a situation that has been one of Indonesia’s strengths in recent years. From the left flank, Jaime Rosquillo launched a powerful long throw into the box. Ivar Jenner’s poor header allowed Out Banatao to challenge Dony Tri Pamungkas in the air and head the ball down into the left corner.

In the second half, the ball was almost constantly in the Philippines’ defensive half. Indonesia still had plenty of time, but they grew increasingly impatient. Instead of combining in short passes, they continued to rely on direct long balls and quick transitions. They created no clear chances against the Philippines’ solid and disciplined defense.

Indonesia eventually accepted a 0–1 defeat. As the final whistle blew, disappointment overwhelmed coach Sjafri and his players, while the Philippines celebrated as if they had won a title. With two consecutive victories, the Philippines became the first team to advance to the semifinals in men’s football. This same squad reached the semifinals of the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship in Indonesia before losing 1–2 to Vietnam.

In the final group match on Dec. 12, Indonesia must beat Myanmar to keep their hopes alive. However, they also need Malaysia and Vietnam not to draw in their match the day before. A draw would give both teams four points, allowing them to advance together.

The men’s football tournament at SEA Games 33 features nine teams divided into three groups. Teams play a single round-robin, with the three group winners and the best runner-up advancing to the semifinals.

Defending champion Indonesia suffered a shocking loss at SEA Games 33