Sibol HOK Assured of Asian Games Podium Finish After Sweeping South Korea

Sibol’s Honor of Kings squad secured at least a bronze medal at the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 after sweeping South Korea, 2-0, in the quarterfinals on Sunday at Aichi Sky Expo.

The Philippines controlled the series from start to finish, preventing South Korea from finding its footing and booking a spot in the semifinals.

The victory also gave the country its second esports medal on Sunday, coming less than an hour after Sibol’s Pokémon UNITE team secured a bronze medal of its own.

Sibol head coach Gerald Gelacio attributed the dominant performance to the team’s disciplined approach and preparation heading into the knockout stage.

“Actually kanina sobrang smooth sailing lang niya kasi sobrang linis ng laro namin and ‘yun ‘yung prinactice namin, sobrang less mistake lang ang nagawa namin,” Gelacio said.

Sibol will now face China in the semifinals at 10 a.m. on Monday, with a spot in the gold-medal match at stake.

The Honor of Kings squad had already played through a packed schedule on Sunday, opening its campaign with a sweep of Kazakhstan before falling short against Malaysia in the battle for the top spot in Pool B.

The Philippines settled for second place in the group and was paired with South Korea in the quarterfinals, where it quickly dispatched its opponent to remain in medal contention.

With another match awaiting them the following morning, Gelacio said the team will use its remaining time to study China and prepare for the semifinal matchup.

“Yun ‘yung gagawin namin mamaya pagbalik ng hotel, marami kaming oras ngayon para panoorin ‘yung game and makagawa ng strategy against them kasi, gaya ng sabi ko, powerhouse team siya and hindi namin siya pwede maliitin,” Gelacio added.