The stage is set for a high-stakes showdown as U22 Vietnam prepares to face U22 Philippines in the semifinals of the men’s football tournament at SEA Games 33. Scheduled for December 15, 2025, at the iconic Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok, this clash has drawn the attention of football fans across Southeast Asia, eager to see which team will punch their ticket to the gold medal match. With both squads boasting impressive credentials from the group stage, anticipation is running high for a contest that promises drama, skill, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.
U22 Vietnam enters the semifinals riding a wave of confidence after a flawless group stage campaign. The young Vietnamese side, guided by head coach Kim Sang Sik, notched up two wins from two matches, dispatching U22 Laos 2-1 in a tense opener before securing a professional 2-0 victory against U22 Malaysia. These results saw Vietnam finish atop Group B, a testament to their consistency and attacking prowess. According to the tournament schedule, their semifinal test against the Philippines is slated for 15:30 local time, with the winner advancing to face either Thailand or Malaysia in the final on December 18.
One name has stood out above the rest for Vietnam: Nguyen Dinh Bac. The Nghệ An-born forward has been nothing short of sensational, directly contributing to all four of his team’s goals so far. He bagged a brace against Laos and followed up with two crucial assists in the victory over Malaysia. As vice-captain, Dinh Bac’s influence on the pitch has been immense, leading many observers to tout him as one of the brightest young talents in Vietnamese football. His all-action displays have not only inspired teammates but also given fans plenty of reasons to dream of gold.
Coach Kim Sang Sik has made it clear that his side is not just chasing results but also striving to play attractive, attacking football. After the group stage, he remarked, “We are committed to delivering beautiful football, not just pragmatic results.” That philosophy was evident in Vietnam’s approach against Malaysia, where, despite knowing a draw would suffice for progression, the team played with ambition and flair to secure victory and top the group outright. This boldness has endeared the team to supporters and set a high bar for their performances in the knockout rounds.
Yet, Vietnam’s path to the final is anything but straightforward. Their semifinal opponents, U22 Philippines, have emerged as the tournament’s dark horses. The Filipinos stormed through Group C with a perfect record, notching wins over Myanmar and, most notably, the defending champions Indonesia. That upset sent shockwaves through the competition and signaled the Philippines’ intent to challenge for honors. Even more impressively, the Philippines have not conceded a single goal in their last four matches, underlining their defensive solidity and tactical discipline.
Philippines’ group stage heroics have set the stage for a tantalizing semifinal. Their victory over Indonesia, a side many had tipped for back-to-back titles, was particularly eye-catching and ensured the defending champions’ early exit. Now, with momentum firmly on their side, the Philippines are relishing the chance to test themselves against a highly-rated Vietnamese outfit. The memory of their previous encounter—when Vietnam edged the Philippines 2-1 in the U23 Southeast Asian Championship semifinals earlier this year—adds another layer of intrigue to this rematch.
Despite Vietnam’s status as favorites, the coaching staff is taking nothing for granted. “The match tomorrow will not be easy, and past victories don’t guarantee present results,” Kim Sang Sik cautioned during his pre-match press conference. Still, he was quick to express faith in his squad’s preparation and fighting spirit. “Nevertheless, the players are well prepared, so I am quite confident. No matter what happens in tomorrow’s match, we will fight and we will win,” he asserted, his determination echoing through the Vietnamese camp.
Vietnam’s ambitions extend beyond the semifinal. The team is eyeing a return to the Rajamangala Stadium for the gold medal match—a venue that holds special significance after Vietnam’s triumphant ASEAN Cup campaign earlier in the year. Reaching the final would not only offer another shot at glory but also reinforce Vietnam’s status as a regional powerhouse in youth football. For the players, many of whom are experiencing their first major international tournament, the chance to emulate their senior counterparts is a powerful motivator.
The other semifinal sees hosts U22 Thailand, who topped Group A, take on U22 Malaysia, the best-performing runner-up from Group B. Thailand, buoyed by home support and a strong run of form, are widely tipped to advance, but Malaysia’s resilience cannot be underestimated. Both semifinals will be played back-to-back on December 15, with the winners progressing to the championship decider three days later. The bronze medal match will also be held on December 18, ensuring a packed finale to the men’s football competition.
Vietnam’s journey to this stage has been marked by both individual brilliance and collective effort. The midfield has provided a sturdy platform, while the defense, marshaled by an experienced backline, has held firm under pressure. Goalkeeper performances have been solid, and the attacking unit—led by Dinh Bac—has shown the creativity and composure needed to break down stubborn defenses. The blend of youth, skill, and tactical awareness has been a hallmark of Kim Sang Sik’s tenure, earning plaudits from pundits and fans alike.
For the Philippines, the challenge lies in maintaining their defensive record against a Vietnamese side brimming with attacking intent. Their ability to frustrate opponents and strike on the counter could prove decisive, especially if they can replicate the discipline and intensity that saw them topple Indonesia. With both teams boasting unbeaten records heading into the semifinal, something has to give—and fans can expect a fiercely contested battle from the opening whistle.
As kickoff approaches, excitement is building in both camps. For Vietnam, the opportunity to reach another SEA Games final is within touching distance, but they know the margin for error is slim. For the Philippines, the chance to make history beckons, and their recent performances suggest they are more than capable of causing another upset. With so much at stake and so many storylines in play, this semifinal is shaping up to be a classic.
By the end of December 15, one team will have taken a giant step toward SEA Games glory. Whether it’s Vietnam’s attacking flair or the Philippines’ defensive steel that prevails, football fans across the region are in for a treat. The action is set, the players are ready, and the dream of gold remains alive for both sides.
