Bangkok, 14 December 2025 – Head coach Kim Sang-sik acknowledged the significant progress of U22 Philippines ahead of the SEA Games 33 men’s football semi-final, but stressed that U22 Vietnam will give everything to secure victory and defend the honour of Vietnamese football.
Speaking at a press conference at Rajamangala Stadium on the afternoon of December 14, head coach Kim Sang-sik shared his thoughts ahead of U22 Vietnam’s semi-final clash with U22 Philippines, the winners of Group C at SEA Games 33. The Korean coach made it clear that reaching the semi-finals is not the final destination for his team. “First of all, we are very happy to be in the SEA Games 33 semi-finals. However, our goal is not just to stop here. We are aiming for a higher position, so U22 Vietnam will definitely fight to win tomorrow,” Kim said. He added that his players are well prepared in all aspects. “At this moment, the players are ready tactically, physically and mentally. I believe we will deliver a good performance in the semi-final.”
U23 Philippines have emerged as one of the biggest surprises of the tournament, most notably after eliminating U22 Indonesia in the group stage and ending the campaign of one of the title favourites. Their presence in the semi-finals is no longer a coincidence, as this is the second consecutive time the young Azkals have reached the last four at a regional tournament. Earlier in July, under coach Garrath McPherson, U22 Philippines knocked out U22 Malaysia in the group stage of the U23 Southeast Asian Championship before losing in the semi-finals, a match in which they managed to score against U22 Vietnam.
Coach Kim acknowledged the clear improvement of the Philippines side compared to previous encounters. “I think U22 Philippines are stronger than when we last faced them. Some of their key players have returned, and their squad depth and organisation have improved,” he noted. Despite U22 Vietnam’s 2-1 victory over the same opponent in their most recent meeting, Kim remained cautious. “Even though we won last time, I cannot guarantee a win tomorrow. Football always has unpredictable moments.”
Nevertheless, the 49-year-old coach underlined the fighting spirit and determination of his team. “What I can guarantee is that regardless of what happens on the pitch, U22 Vietnam will fight with everything we have to achieve our objective. Tomorrow, we will fight for the honour of Vietnam and for the pride of our people and supporters,” Kim concluded.
The semi-final encounter promises to be a stern test for U22 Vietnam as they look to take another step toward the SEA Games 33 gold medal and reaffirm their position as one of the region’s leading football nations.
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