Trophy for FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup revealed

The FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup trophy

As the draw for the inaugural edition of the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup creeps closer, FIFA on Friday revealed the trophy that sixteen nations will be going after for in the Philippines.

The global football entity crafted the design in-house, the trophy, according to them, "encapsulates the energy, precision and creativity of the women’s game." It is set to inspire players and fans alike as it set to take place starting late November.

Taking certain elements from its male counterpart, but it is to have its own personal identity. This piece "embodies the essence of futsal, a high-speed, skill-focused sport." It features two converging bars in gold and silver, symbolizing unity and competition, on a stylised futsal pitch. The curves echo the dynamic flow of the game, underscoring the technical finesse, ball control and teamwork that define elite futsal.

The upcoming ceremony will be the first chance the world will be able to actually see the trophy, which is scheduled to take place inside Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, with the program scheduled to commence at 5pm local time and will be streamed through FIFA.com, as well as through its app, FIFA+.

Hosted by sports presenter Mara Aquino, FIFA representatives, sporting legends, and dignitaries will be around for the proceedings, which will see the teams split into four groups.

All sixteen teams have been allocated into four pots based the latest FIFA Futsal Women's World Rankings released back in late August, save for the Philippines, who has been already slotted into Pot 1 as hosts.

Joining the Filipina5 in the Pot are perceived favorites Brazil, Spain, and Portugal.

Asian contenders Thailand and Japan lead Pot 2, alongside Argentina and Italy.

Meanwhile in Pot 3, Iran will be fielding their first women's team at this level of competition, with Colombia, Poland, and New Zealand.

Completing the field in Pot 4 are Morocco, Canada, Panama, and Tanzania, whose team here will the first time any of their senior sides have reached at this high in the world stage.

Pot 1 teams will be drawn first, with the Philippines automatically designated into Group A as A1. Subsequent teams will then be selected and allocated into the three remaining groups, before restarting the process in the next pot, until all teams have been selected.

FIFA prefers to have as much as possible a diverse group, so it will ensure that no team from the same confederation will be in each group.

The FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup will take place at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, starting on November 21 and ending on December 7, and fans can already pre-register their interest in securing tickets through FIFA.com/tickets.

Philippines slotted into Group A of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, set to open competition

The Filipinas with their fans during AFC Qualifying earlier this year

The Philippines' pathway towards the goal of making a return trip to the FIFA Women's World Cup was made clear on Tuesday with the results of the draw for the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup.

Held in Sydney, the ladies were drawn into Group A, alongside Australia, Korea Republic, and Iran, and having been slotted into A4, they were automatically designated as the team that will face the hosts to open the competition on March 1, at Perth.

After facing the 15th-ranked Matildas, they will head to the Gold Coast for their remaining Group Stage matches: with the Koreans on the 5th and concluding the first phase against the Persians on the 8th.

DPR Korea, China PR, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan comprise Group B, while Japan, Vietnam, India, and Chinese-Taipei complete the twelve-team field with Group C.

Only the four semifinalists will earn automatic spots at the FIFA Women's World Cup, which Brazil hosts in 2027. Two more teams will earn the right for an opportunity to play for a spot through the Playoff Tournament that takes place later in 2026.

Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez says when asked about his thoughts on the draw results, "Not the easiest group but not the hardest. Either way, we have to beat the best to be the best. Our girls will be ready come March."

Representing the team in the draw is Mark Torcaso, and he expressed his anticipation for the start of the tournament. The gaffer shares, "Really excited by it, and I know that our players will be up for the challenge. Every team here that has qualified obviously deserves to be here and they’re all going to be difficult opponents. It didn’t really matter who we were going to play, every game is going to be tough, and every game wehave to be extremely determined and focused to get an outcome."

He also adds, "We’re really excited by this opportunity, playing against the host in front of a big crowd in the first game, along with South Korea and Iran in the group." With the memory of managing to qualify in the FIFA Women's World Cup back in 2023 still fresh, the team remains optimistic of their hopes of earning their spot again in 2027.

Torcaso emphasizes such belief, as he says, "We are going to do our absolute best to bring World Cup opportunities back to our players and back to our country. We’ll be extremely determined and excited by making sure that we make this happen and we’ll do everything possible over the next few windows to make sure that we’re as prepared as possible."

With a schedule that includes two major sub-continental competitions in the remainder of the year, comprising the AFF MSIG Serenity Cup next week and the SEA Games this December, Torcaso notes that these tourneys will help the team prepare for this coming March. He shares, "This coming AFF tournament is a chance for us to see a lot of our young youth players play obviously with a closed FIFA window, we will give a lot of opportunity to our young players and see where they’re at in the level that they’re going to be hopefully to be ready for opportunities that come their way for the Asian Cup."

Pasig, Victorias named as FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup Philippines 2025 host cities

The two host cities of the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup Philippines 2025

It was announced on Friday that two cities will be the venues for the upcoming FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup Philippines 2025™.

The cities of Pasig in the National Capital Region, and Victorias in Negros Occidental will serve as the Host Cities for the inaugural edition of the competition, set to take place in late November, as revealed by FIFA and the tournament's Local Organizing Committee.

Philippine Football Federation president John Anthony Gutierrez shares, "We are extremely proud of this milestone and we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the local governments of Pasig City and Victorias City for their invaluable support in providing a truly unforgettable experience for the participating teams, the fans and the Filipino community."

On FIFA's end, Director of Tournaments Jaime Yarza says, "We are confident that, in collaboration with both Host Cities, we will deliver a tournament that meets the highest standards in terms of facilities and services and offers the players and fans a top-class experience."

Yarza also adds, "We also aim to leave a tangible legacy within the Philippines, improving the futsal infrastructure in the country – starting in these two cities – and encouraging new players to take up the game."

FIFA representatives made visits to both cities in recent months, checking on the infrastructure, accessibility, and accomodation capacity. With both cities having a track record for successfully hosting both sports and cultural events, making it ideal to host this groundbreaking endeavor.

In addition, the existence of active grassroots programmes in the area proved to be a key element in the selection process, which is in line with FIFA's long-term goals for the development of futsal and the promotion of women's football.

As noted by FIFA Chief Women's Football Officer Dame Sarai Bareman, "World Cups are among the most powerful forces we have to grow our sport, and the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is another exciting step in that journey. It’s a chance to inspire more girls and women around the world to play futsal."

Competition is set to commence on November 21, with the inaugural champion to be crowned on December 7. The sixteen-team field has already been formalized with the conclusion of the qualifying rounds, with these countries joining the Philippines in the affair: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, IR Iran, Italy, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Tanzania and Thailand.

Filipinas set for February camp

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Football Federation is to hold a training camp for the Senior Women's National Football Team next month, kicking off its busy year ahead.

Serving as the culmination for the camp is an intrasquad exhibition on February 25 at the Mall of Asia Football Field, which is already nearing completion. The event is slated to start at 6pm.

Head Coach Mark Torcaso says about the upcoming camp, "I’m really looking forward to having the Filipinas back in action at home, where the supporters in Manila can get a chance to experience the team up close, in one of the city’s new and exciting football venues. With the ASEAN Women’s Championship and the Asian Cup Qualifiers taking place midyear, and the SEA Games being held in December, there’s a lot to play for in 2025. This camp gives us a great opportunity to continue building the foundation for the way we want to play. We cannot wait to be back home to showcase our Filipinas."

PFF Senior Director for National Teams Freddy Gonzalez adds, "The Filipinas haven't spent much time at home since their historic World Cup run, so it's a really good opportunity for all the fans to connect with the team, and for our players to savor the experience of playing in front of their supporters. I can't think of a better way to introduce the new Mall of Asia Football Field to the Philippine public. Nine days of solid work at home, familiarizing with one another and with Coach Mark's game model will be a great way to start a big 2025 for the Filipinas."

The Filipinas aim to successfully defend their title in the ASEAN Women's Championship, while also secure a medal at the upcoming SEA Games in Thailand. They are also set to start their quest to return to the AFC Asian Cup finals after their success in the previous edition allowed them to make their FIFA Women's World Cup debut.

Philippines reveals squad for AFC Women's Futsal Asian Cup qualifying

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Amidst the backdrop of recent developments involving the women's futsal team, the Philippine Football Federation has called up fourteen players for the upcoming AFC Women's Futsal Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers.

Set to take place from January 11-19 at the Yunusobod Sports Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the Philippines will tangle with Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Australia in Group C of the tournament. Finishing in the top two of the group secures a spot in the finals proper, which is to take place this May in China.

Three spots to the inaugural edition of the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup are at stake, with the Philippines already earmarked a spot as the host of the competition set to be held in November.

To assemble the team, the PFF held a camp last December 26-30 in Manila, supplemented by training earlier this week.

Leading the way are a few holdovers from the team that participated in the ASEAN Women's Futsal Championship late last year: Shai del Campo, Cathrine Graversen, Samantha Hughes, Vrendelle Nuera, and Kayla Santiago.

This is supplemented by recent Filipinas call-ups Shelah Cadag, Sara Castaneda, Bella Flanigan, Katrina Guillou, and Dionesa Tolentin.

Completing the team are Judy Connolly, Rocelle Mendaño, Nicole Ramores, and Regine Rebosura.

Acting as the head coach is Rafa Merino Rodriguez. The Barcelona-born coach holds a UEFA Pro License (Level 3) and an FA Level 1 in Football (England). He also possesses expertise in sports coaching, earned at Florida Universitaria in Valencia, Spain. Merino has managed several first-division futsal clubs, including Pescados Rubén Burela FS and Barcelona's Esportiu Rubí FS.

In being named as the gaffer, the Spaniard shares, "I am honored to be appointed as the new head coach of the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team. I look forward to working with these players to build a competitive, unified squad ready to excel in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. We are focused on achieving success in the upcoming tournament."

With a spot already assured in the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup, the federation has been doing its part to reflect readiness in the competition. The participation of the team formerly known as the Pinay 5 in Asian Cup qualifying is a key step to gauge their play after their ASEAN campaign.

PFF President John Gutierrez says, "The Asian Cup Qualifiers will be a pivotal moment for our women’s futsal national team, as their performance here will set the tone for our campaign in the FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup."

He adds, "In terms of our preparation, I couldn’t be happier with this team we built, headed by our new head coach, Rafa Merino. I think we’ve assembled the best players we can, dedicated players to play for the country and nothing else. As far as preparation goes, I am very optimistic."

Gutierrez concludes, "More than just the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, we would also like to make our mark in the entire Asian Region. That is why we are treating this AFC Women’s Futsal qualifier very seriously by fielding the strongest team possible."

The federation is dedicated to ensuring the successful participation of its Women’s National Futsal Team at the inaugural event, an important milestone that will elevate Philippine futsal on the global stage and inspire thousands of aspiring futsal players in the country.

In addition, they also shared that FIFA has accepted PhilSports Arena and the Victorias City Coliseum in Negros Occidental as venues for the Futsal World Cup.

The Philippines will face Kuwait in their opening match on January 11, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. (PHT), with the remaining matches as follows.

• January 13, 2025 – Philippines vs. Uzbekistan | Monday, 6:00 PM

• January 15, 2025 – Philippines vs. Turkmenistan | Wednesday, 6:00 PM

• January 19, 2025 – Philippines vs. Australia | Sunday, 6:00 PM

Thailand outlasts the Philippines to advance into AMEC final

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippines were inches away from dethroning Thailand in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, and just minutes away from forcing penalties. But a dramatic Suphanat Mueanta goal deep in extra time put an end to the Filipinos’ Cinderella run in the competition.

“First, I’d like to congratulate Thailand on making the final. Second, I’m very proud of my players. We will come back stronger, I can promise you that. We came here to Thailand and we played against them face-to-face until the last minute,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas after the grueling 120-minute affair at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.

Entering the match with a 2-1 advantage from the first leg, the Philippines started the contest full of confidence, able to dictate the game in front of the vibrant 31,000 in attendance. Jarvey Gayoso came close to a deserved opener, but his effort was denied by a goal-line clearance.

The seven-time champions eventually wrestled control as the half wore on, and found a breakthrough through captain Peeradol Chamratsamee in the 38th minute, who fired in the opener from a tight angle. That lead was doubled eight minutes after the break, with Patrik Gustavsson tucking away a well placed through ball.

Behind 3-2 on aggregate at that stage, the Philippines needed to find a goal to stay in the tie. They found that lifeline through Bjorn Kristensen, who fired in a beautiful low curling strike from outside of the box to restore parity in the tie. The Filipinos even went on to almost snatch another goal that would’ve sent the team through to the final.

From a dangerous cross in to the box, Amani Aguinaldo’s header forced a good stop from the keeper. The resulting rebound was fired unto the underside of the crossbar, with a third attempt struck goal wards, but deflected out for a corner kick. That unconverted scramble meant the match went into extra-time where Muenta’s heroics at the death ensured the Thais returned to the final.

“I think we played good in the first 20 minutes, and in the last 20 minutes. In the first half of extra time it was an equal game, but in the last 10 minutes we suffered. We couldn’t put pressure on the ball anymore and we allowed too many crosses. Next time we will learn from that lesson and we will come back stronger,” said Capellas, who finished the tournament with a record of two wins, three draws, and one loss. “We just arrived at this level. For a lot of years we couldn’t play these type of games — to fight until the last second against Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam. It’s the first time we are here after a lot of years. We have to learn from this experience. Thailand has been there a lot of years. For this generation of players, this is the first time. All I can promise is that we’ll learn from this and we’ll become stronger.”

Reflecting on a grueling campaign where the team played six games in 18 days, the Spanish tactician couldn’t help but feel a change is needed for future editions of the tournament.

“The competition I think has to be organized in a different way. Our players were completely destroyed physically. We have to take care of the players. They need more rest time in between games. This is not respect for the game, this is not respect to the players,” he said.

He also took time to thank all the support the team garnered over the last few weeks, including the over 10,000 that witnessed the Philippines beat Thailand at the Rizal Memorial Stadium just a few days ago.

“I hope all the Filipinos are proud and that they enjoyed [the efforts of] our squad. They fought a lot. And I hope we get the support from the federation, the government, and from people who love football, to help us grow football in the Philippines, so we’ll have more games like this,” he said. “Thank you very much to all the Filipinos, not only in the Philippines, but around the world. Now we have to move to the next level. We have to have a more powerful league. We have to develop the youth football. We need to invest, and we will come back stronger. We will work very hard to make it happen.”

“Now we know we can do it. We have a very bright future for the National Team of the Philippines for the next few years,” he concluded. The Philippine Men’s National Team will next see action in March, when the campaign to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup begins.

Philippines at cusp of historic moment in AMEC

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippines is one match away from making a first ever appearance in the final of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup. Having made history by beating Thailand in Manila in the first leg, the Filipinos take a slim 2-1 advantage heading into Monday’s 9:00PM (PST) match at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok. The winner on aggregate after both legs will go through to face either Vietnam or Singapore in the final.

“I think it’ll be a very equal 200 minutes. I know that it’s about two games. We have to perform good again tomorrow if we want to go to the final. We know that we can make it difficult for Thailand. We have watched the [previous] game, we have made some adjustments to try to come here and make a good performance for our fans, our federation, and for our players, to show that we are making steps forward. We will try to reach the final for sure,” said head coach Albert Capellas.

Michael Kempter, who stepped out with the captain’s armband in the first leg, is under no illusions about the gravity of the task ahead and is expecting that the team will need to dig deep once again to overcome the seven-time champions.

“We know that Thailand is a very good team. We are very prepared for the game. We’re going to fight until the end like in Manila,” said Kempter. “We’re here to reach the finals. We believe in ourselves. We’re not done yet, the job’s not done. We’re here to make history for our country.”

Thailand are no strangers to overturning first-leg deficits, having successfully overcome a few en route to Southeast Asian supremacy. With their home fans behind them, Thai player Chalermsak Akkee suggested that the Filipinos’ tears of joy in Manila would turn into tears of agony on Monday night.

“There is no sport in the world that moves people more than football — maybe music, but not in sport. That’s why the fans now are starting to feel the hope. Tomorrow we will perform, and I’m sure our fans will not cry. They will feel very proud no matter if we win, if we draw, or we lose. I’m sure they will feel very proud,” said Albert Capellas in response.

A draw or a win for the Philippines will guarantee passage into the final, which will be played over two legs as well. Tonight's match will be aired LIVE on Matchday.ph.

Philippines claims home leg of AMEC semifinal

c/o Philippine Football Federation

In front of a boisterous Rizal Memorial Stadium crowd, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team made history on Friday night, defeating Thailand, 2-1, to seal the team’s first ever semifinal win in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup, and a first victory in 52 years over the regional powerhouse. The win was sealed in dramatic fashion, with a last minute goal that ensured the Filipinos take the advantage heading into the second leg in Bangkok.

“I’m very happy for all the supporters, all the fans. I’m very happy for the players because they never give up. We played a very good 35-40 minutes against a very good team,” said Albert Capellas after the match. “In the second half we suffered more, conceded attempts that we shouldn’t have. But we handled it together. We never lost the hope because this team — they’re fighters, they believe — they fight so much for this country. I’m so proud for them. In the end I think we got what we deserved. I’m very happy.”

The Philippines got off to strong start, putting Thailand on the back-foot by keeping possession well and moving the ball quickly. 20 minutes into the contest, Sandro Reyes fired in a left-footed wonder strike to give the Philippines a deserved lead. The visitors responded right before the break though, with Suphanan Bureerat finishing off a counter attack to give Thailand a lifeline.

With a foot back into the game, the Thais emerged from the second half inspired, mounting numerous attacks that led to clear-cut opportunities. But after enduring a difficult half of pressure, the Filipinos dramatically turned the match around in the final minute. From a Zico Bailey free kick, Paul Tabinas cushioned the ball to Kike Linares for the game-winning goal.

“We knew how to suffer, we suffered the entire group stage,” said Man of the Match Sandro Reyes. “I think the group stage was a perfect practice for today because we suffered a lot, but we found a way to go through all those hurdles. We went through hell and we came out. Today was the same. The end of the first half, until the end of the game I think Thailand had plenty of chances. They were putting pressure on us. We couldn’t keep the ball. We were very tired. But we got out of hell and scored the last minute goal. The fans were amazing. They were with us until the end.”

“Since I started playing football at age four, Thailand has always been the team to beat. They’ve always been the strongest in Southeast Asia, so to beat them shows how far we’ve come,” he continued. “But the job isn’t even halfway done. We’ve got a very difficult job in the second leg coming up and we want to play a final here, so we’ll give everything to get that final here.”

Ecstatic about the historic win, Coach Albert Capellas believes there’s still plenty more to come from the Philippine Men’s National Football Team.

"I’m very happy for everyone who’s making a lot of effort inside of the federation — Freddy [Gonzalez], Mikkel [Paris], and all of the staff. You cannot imagine how much they work for this team. They need all the support from everybody because this is just the beginning, and we want to get better and better.”

The Philippines will look to seal the country’s first ever appearance in the competition’s final, when they will play Thailand in Bangkok on Monday, December 30, at 9:00PM.

Philippines ready for home leg of AMEC Semifinal

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Back in the semi-finals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup for the first time in six years, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team is eager to get off to a strong start in their two-legged tie versus regional powerhouse Thailand. The first match will be held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Friday night, December 27, 9PM, with the second leg to be played in Bangkok on the 30th.

Up against seven-time champions of ASEAN’s biggest stage, and a team ranked 53 places higher in the FIFA rankings, Philippine Head Coach Albert Capellas sees no reason to change the approach that got his team to the knockout rounds.

“It’s nice to be here again, it means we’ve qualified for the semi-finals. It’s very nice to see all of you again, and to have the chance to play two more good games,” said Capellas. “We have this rule that the most important game is the next game, and we won’t change that. We always prepare the games believing we can win. We know that Thailand is a very strong opponent, but we’ll attack with the s

ame mentality. This is the way that we’ve prepared for this game — exactly the same as all the other games.”

Bjorn Kristensen’s goal in front of 17,000 Indonesians was what sealed passage for the Filipinos into the semi-finals. The young striker is no stranger to Thailand, having opened his goal scoring account for the Philippines against Friday’s opponent a couple months ago.

“It will be a good game against a strong opponent. It’s what we live for, to play against good teams. Hopefully we can get the win in the first leg, and the hopefully the second leg also,” said Kristensen, scorer of two goals so far in this tournament.

The Filipinos will be without the services of Amani Aguinaldo due to suspension, as well as Patrick Reichelt, who recently announced his retirement from international football. The team will welcome back Santi Rublico, though, who bolsters the team’s options in attack.

“In this tournament we’re experts in finding the balance. It’s one of the keys of why we’re here today. We had to find the balance of the minutes we deliver to every player. Every player who got the chance delivered their best,” said Capellas, before adding, “Alone we cannot achieve anything, together we can achieve a lot of things. One of the strong parts of this group, is the belief that they have — they do everything together — and the effort that they make in every game. That means with or without Amani [and Patrick], that will not change.”

“With Santi, he could only join us if we made it to the semi-final stage and I’m very happy that the club allowed him to join us. He knows all the players, knows the system, and knows me very well. He has the same chances as everyone else to get minutes.”

Tickets to the Filipinos’ clash with Thailand are available on Ticketmax.ph. The game will be aired LIVE matchday.ph and on PTV Sports.

Philippines secures AMEC semifinal spot

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Winless yet undefeated coming in to the Manahan Stadium, the Philippine men’s national football team (PMNFT) proved to Southeast Asia its winning mettle, scoring an all-important 1-0 victory over Indonesia and booking a semis ticket to close the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup Group B competitions on Saturday in Surakarta.

The win marks the return of the Philippines to the ASEAN home-and-away semis, which it last achieved in 2018. The team will next face defending champion Thailand on December 27 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium (RMS).

This also marks the Philippines’ first win against Indonesia since 2014 and the first ever on Indonesian soil.

“I can’t begin to describe how I feel right now. It’s like, it’s just nice to be back. Nice to be back where we belong in the semifinals and the job’s not done yet,” said Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Director for National Teams Freddy Gonzalez.

“We played four games in nine days, so everyone was gassed, but these guys really dug deep and, you know, pulled off an amazing victory today that brought us back to the semifinals,” Gonzalez, a national team striker in the ’90s, added.

The Philippines’ patience in building up for the goal and weathering Indonesia’s intense attacks on their side paid off when Paul Tabinas earned a penalty, forcing a handball on Dony Tri Pamungkas to earn Bjorn Kristensen the winning goal in the 63rd minute.

The glorious goal came after a flurry of shots on goal by Indonesia starting in the latter part of the first half, backstopped by speedster Marcelino Ferdinan, who had three shots on goal saved by replacement keeper Quincy Kammeraad and one that hit the woodwork.

The Indonesian momentum came to a halt when skipper Muhammad Ferrari was booked for a red card for elbowing fellow skipper Amani Aguinaldo in the 43rd minute, limiting Indonesia to ten men throughout the match.

Kristensen had the final say of the first half with a header in front of goal that was saved by Cahya Supriadi.

Early in the second half, Hokky Brilliant and Achmad Syarif stepped up on offense but their shots were saved by Kammeraad.

After Kristensen’s goal, it was the Philippines’ turn to step on the gas, with substitute Uriel Dalapo released for a running strike that was saved by Supriadi in the 75th minute, while a similar counter by Jarvey Gayoso in the 85th minute was blocked by Muhammad Hannan.

The Philippines held the fort on defense despite 14 minutes of added time as Kammeraad had the last laugh, saving the outside shot on target by late sub Ronaldo Joybera, Jr.

“This is very emotional for us. There are no words,” said Aguinaldo who, alongside starting keeper Patrick Deyto, was part of the 2018 squad. “I am very happy to be part of this team, of this squad that has faced much difficulty from the past.”

“I think the coach told us today the last few games luck hasn’t been on our side and I think us as a team we created our luck today and this is something the country has been needing for a long time and this is just for the team and for the country and everybody,” said Man of the Match Kammeraad, who replaced an injured Patrick Deyto in the 4th minute.

The Philippines has not won against Thailand in head-to-head history and has only drawn twice.

In last October’s King’s Cup, PMNFT figured in a rain-soaked 1-3 loss against the world number 97, with Kristensen scoring his first international goal.

“I hope… we will have our fans behind at home. We will need them. We need full stadium and we will try to do our best to beat Thailand,” encouraged PMNFT head coach Albert Capellas, who is on his debut ASEAN Championship.

Philippine to give its all in final AMEC group stage matchup

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team’s hopes of progress into the semi-finals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 hangs in the balance on Saturday night, when they face Indonesia, 9PM PST, at the Manahan Stadium. After three straight draws, nothing less than victory in Surakarta will be enough to give the Filipinos passage into the next round.

“We have played four games in a row with only two days in between [each match]. I think this is a disadvantage, but of course we will not use this as an excuse. Tomorrow we will perform. I know my players, I know they will deliver 100%,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas. “We will come here tomorrow to try to win the game. We need to win the game if we want to have a chance to qualify. I think we’re facing a very good team who are playing at home, in front of a big and passionate audience. It’s a team that we have to play very well against if we want to have a chance to beat them.”

Echoing Capellas’ thoughts, Sandro Reyes, who has been key figure in the Philippines’ midfield, believes that despite the grueling schedule, his teammates will be ready to perform at the level required.

“It’s difficult to understand how a tournament can be played with four games in 12 days, but like coach said we’re not using this as an excuse All of the players are fit, ready, no injuries. Everyone is excited and energized to give more than 100% tomorrow,” said Reyes.

In order to qualify for the semi-finals, the Philippines not only need to win on Saturday night, but Group B leaders Vietnam must not lose in their match versus Myanmar, which will be held simultaneously.

The Filipinos clash with Indonesia will be aired LIVE on One Sports, One Sports+, and on Matchday.ph. It will also be available on a delayed basis on the Philippine Men’s National Football Team Facebook Page, and on Pilipinas Live.

Philippines keeps AMEC semifinal hopes alive with draw against Vietnam

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine men's national football team's (PMNFT) third Group B fixture in 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup (AMEC) has resulted in another draw, 1-1, versus outright semifinalist Vietnam on Wednesday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

This was the first point the Philippines has scored from Vietnam since the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup, where the Philippines won, 1-0, courtesy of a Chieffy Caligdong late goal.

PMNFT has since lost six games against the ASEAN powerhouse until Wednesday's draw.

Homegrown star Jarvey Gayoso came from his wedding last weekend to electrify the Filipino crowd with his patented left-footed bomb in the 68th minute for the lead.

Scoring on his third international goal, the shot was built up by an Amani Aguinaldo long ball, targeting Javier Mariona, who headed the ball to Gayoso.

That could have been a 2-0 score for the Philippines as in the first half stoppage time, Bjorn Kristensen scored after being released by fellow Fil-Norwegian Adrian Ugelvik on the break but the starting forward was called for an offensive foul on his body-to-body with Viet Anh Bui Hoang, disallowing the goal.

"Today was a different game. Today was a 50-50 game. It was more of a battle," remarked national team coach Albert Capellas.

"We have to keep longer ball possession because when we put five passes between lines, we shouldn't have lost, if we could do that on the last five-seven minutes, we shouldn't have lost. But we are tired, the team was so tired, but they gave whatever they can," Capellas explained, alluding to his team's third game in seven days, which included travel to and from Vientiane.

Ngoc Tan Doan ultimately scored the upset goal in the 90+7 mark, finding an opening by crouching low to head in the right corner inswing.

When asked about conceding three goals from set pieces, Capellas responded: "I never will blame a player for a mistake. Never. All of them they have my hundred percent support. A player who does not play is a player who does not commit a mistake. Football is a game of mistakes."

"It's nothing about set pieces. It's about respecting the players who play," Capellas asserted.

For his part, Philippine Football Federation (PFF) President John Anthony Gutierrez expressed his full support for the team.

"As I've said on Tuesday, this will be a 50-50 game. This has not been the case against Vietnam since our peak years in terms of world ranking. Now that we are coming in at world number 149, it is astounding for us not only to draw against Vietnam, but to battle them possession by possession," Gutierrez said, pertaining to the possession share per official match report.

"We have to give credit to the coaching staff for that excellent second half adjustment that resulted in our goal. I also want to express my support for our homegrown keeper Patrick Deyto for those crucial saves that could have resulted in our elimination had he not played excellently," Gutierrez continued.

Hope is not lost for PMNFT (3 points) as it will head to Solo, in a must-win game against idle group runner-up and home team Indonesia (4 points).

The Philippines should also hope for at least a draw between Vietnam (7 points) and Myanmar (4 points) to advance.

Philippines ready for Vietnam test in AMEC action

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team is gearing up to take on their biggest test in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 campaign, when they take on Vietnam on Wednesday night, 9:00PM, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium. The two-time champions and pre-tournament favorites currently hold top spot in Group B, and enter the contest fresh from victory over Indonesia.

“We are really looking forward to play against Vietnam - a good team. They are leading the group and from my point of view is the strongest team in the group and the team to beat. Tomorrow we have a fantastic opportunity to prove to ourselves that we’re able to beat these kinds of teams,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas

The Philippines drew their first two matches against Myanmar and Laos, and are now looking to utilize the energy of the home support to carry them against the Southeast Asian giants.

“We got two points in our first two matches, but we’re still very much alive in this tournament. We respect Vietnam, they’re a good team and viewed as favorites in this tournament, but we’re going to give a good fight and go for the three points,” said Alex Monis.

Tickets to the match are available at Ticketmax.ph. The game will also be aired LIVE on One Sports, One Sports+, and on Matchday.ph. It will also be available on a delayed basis on the Philippine Men’s National Football Team Facebook Page, and on Pilipinas Live.

Philippines with consecutive draws in AMEC play

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Sandro Reyes scored a late goal to ensure the Philippine Men’s National Football Team shared the spoils on Sunday night at the Laos National Stadium. Despite dominating the majority of the contest, the Filipinos settled for their second straight draw in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024.

“We didn’t attack well. We were very predictable with so many players behind the ball,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas after the match. “We weren’t brave enough to move the ball quicker and to play in between the lines, and for that I’m disappointed because, I know my team can play better.”

From the first whistle the Philippines showcased their ability to keep the ball and dictate possession, starving the hosts of any opportunities to threaten. Kike Linares and Michael Kempter came close from set pieces in the opening 20 minutes, but it was Laos to score first from a corner kick. 10 minutes from the break, against the run of play, Michael Baldisimo suffered the misfortune of turning the ball into his own net.

The Philippines emerged from half-time eager to restore parity. Laos remained stubborn, though, minimizing the visitors’ opportunities inside their box. With 15 minutes to go, their resistance was finally broken. Paul Tabinas found Sandro Reyes from a quick transition, and the young midfielder slotted the ball into the net to make it 1-1.

The Philippines came close to scoring a late winner. Alex Monis thought he’d found the go ahead just a few minutes after, but his clever finish was waved away for offside. Javier Mariona came close to being the hero as well right at the finish, but his low curling effort was tipped away by the goalkeeper.

“Today was a step backwards, but we need to move forward,” said Capellas.

The Philippines are back in action on December 18, 9PM, at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, where they take on powerhouse Vietnam in their third match of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024.

Philippines seeking ASEAN ME Cup road victory at Vientiane

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team are eager to get maximum points when they face-off against Laos on Sunday evening, 6:30PM PST, at the New Laos National Stadium. Having drawn their opener in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024, the Filipinos require victory in opposition territory in order to boost their chances of progressing into the semifinals of Southeast Asia’s biggest tournament.

“We had only two days of preparation, and one was for traveling, so we only have today to really prepare for the game. It’s a very short time, but of course we are professionals, so the players will deliver their best,” said Philippine Head Coach Albert Capellas.

“They are dangerous in front. Boundphachan [Bounkong] is a good player - dangerous. I expect they will try to find him as much as they can. That is part of what we have to try to do. — he cannot receive too many balls in good positions on the field. I also expect a team that will be aggressive. Even if they’ve had a long trip as well from Indonesia, we are more or less in the same position physically,” he continued “If we want to win this game, we’ll need to be good in offense, but also very organized in our rest defense so they cannot play quick counterattacks, which they do very well."

Laos enter the match full of confidence after managing an impressive 3-3 draw away from home against highly favored Indonesia in their last outing. Zico Bailey, who impressed in his first appearance in front of the Filipino fans, is expecting a tough challenge.

“We have a lot of respect for them, they have a lot of good players. They had a good result in their last match, so we’re not taking them likely. We’re just going to go over how we’re going to play, our tactics, the formation of the players, and we’ll give our best tomorrow,” he said.

The match will be available LIVE on Matchday.ph and on One Sports+. It will also be available on a delayed basis on One Sports, Pilipinas Live, and on the Philippine Men’s National Football Team’s Facebook page.

Philippines draws Myanmar in AMEC 2024 opener

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine men's national football team saved a point in the opening game of the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup Group B, tying Myanmar, 1-1, on Thursday at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Center forward Bjorn Kristensen sank his penalty kick in the 71st minute that he earned after getting deckes by Burmese goalkeeper Zin Nyi Nyi Aung.

The goal delighted the Filipino home crowd as it negated the early goal of Mg Mg Lwin, when he scored a free kick from 20 yards top of goal in the 20th minute.

It was a tense game from start to finish as the video assisted referee, being used in the ASEAN Men's Championship for the first time, disallowed a goal by Myanmar substitute Ye Yint Aung in the 63rd minute, as the passer, Lwin, was in an offside position.

"Myanmar has always been and is always a tough team in ASEAN," said Philippine Football Federation (PFF) President John Anthony Gutierrez.

"The last time we met them in 2021, it took a hat-trick by Bienvenido Maranon to beat them, 3-2," he continued.

"Nonetheless, we've played with better possessions even though we could not field some of our top men and your PFF is proud to have showcased this refreshing way of playing football in front of our kababayan. We are on course in improving our 2022 standing and hopefully, to be able to return to the semifinal," Gutierrez said.

The Philippines had chances to earn the three points late in the game, but dangerous strikes by newcomer Javier Mariona in the 81st minute and Paul Tabinas in the 86th minute were slightly off target.

Myanmar also had a chance to score a goal on-side but veteran goalkeeper Patrick Deyto made a clutch one-handed save on an on-target volley shot by Lwin in the 88th minute.

Central midfielder Zico Bailey unleashed a rocket from far range but his on-target shot was saved by Aung in the 90+5th minute while Michael Baldisimo skied the Philippines' final strike to close the game.

The Philippines will vie for a win as they visit Laos in Vientiane on Sunday, December 15.

"Sunday will be our best chance to get in the winning column and we call our kababayans in Laos to support our men's national team on Sunday," closed Gutierrez.

Philippines ready to kick off its ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup campaign

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team are all set to begin their campaign in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, where they face Myanmar at 6:30PM on Thursday night. Four time semi-finalists on Southeast Asia’s biggest stage, the Philippines are eager to give the home fans plenty to cheer about at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

PMNFT Head Coach Albert Capellas and goalkeeper Patrick Deyto expressed their excitement ahead of what’s expected to be a fiery affair in Manila.

“It's the first game of the tournament so it's always important. We want to set the tone in a positive way,” said Deyto. “It's a good opportunity for us to showcase how we have developed in the last few camps.”

“It’s always special to play for the country, with the national team, I'm always prepared and always ready to give 100% for whatever role I have,” said the 34-year-old shot-stopper, who made his debut in the competition in 2014.

When asked about his approach against the visiting Myanmar side, Capellas revealed: “We will try to keep the ball, we will try to dominate the game, try to win from minute one.”

Myanmar is coming off a 1-0 defeat at home to Indonesia, but Capellas is still wary of their threat, as he added: “I expect a team who, they try to do quick counter-attacks, that they try to bring the ball in front as quick as possible.”

The coach remained positive about the team’s progress even with only three games thus far, describing the recent friendly defeat to Hong Kong as just “one step backwards”, but ultimately a part of the process.

Deyto and Capellas both noted the importance of the 12th man backing the team at home. “We hope that a lot of people would come to support us. Of course, the 12th man always gives us extra energy, extra boost to create a good atmosphere in the stadium,” remarked Deyto.

Tickets to the Philippines’ ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024 Group B opener are available on Ticketmax.ph. The match will also be available LIVE on Matchday.ph, and on a delayed basis on One Sports, One Sports+, Pilipinas Live, and on Philippine Men’s National Football Team’s Facebook page.

Stallion Laguna FC claims PFF Women's Cup title

Stallion Laguna FC

Stallion Laguna FC claimed the 2024 edition of the PFF Women's Cup on Monday night, dispatching Kaya FC-Iloilo, 1-0 in the final that took place at the Rizal Memorial Football Stadium.

The lone goal of the match came early on, as Chandler McDaniel volleyed it past the keeper from way outside the box about 120 seconds into the match.

McDaniel shared afterwards, "We wanted to come in and make a statement we wanted to win of course... Coming from last season, we really wanted to make a statement, come back and that’s exactly what we did and we will keep on moving."

The McDaniel siblings returned to the club after a brief sojourn overseas, highlighting the major buildup the team had in the offseason, which included signings like recent national team callups Jess Miclat, and Bella Pasion, as well as other acquisitions like Jamia Fields, whose stoppage-time winner allowed them to beat Kaya in the preliminaries.

Chandler and Olivia also led the individual awardees that were also handed out that evening, with the former named as the Most Valuable Player and the latter as the Best Goalkeeper.

Other individual awardees include Hali Long as the Best Defender, Katrina Wetherell as the Best Midfielder, and Golden Boot awardee Julissa Cisneros, who scored eleven goals in the competition.

Capping off the awardees are Tuloy FC as Fairplay Award winners.

In a statement, Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez shares, "Congratulations to Stallion Laguna FC on their championship victory and to all the award recipients for their outstanding performances.. The PFF Women’s Cup 2024 showcased the incredible talent and dedication of women’s football, and we are excited to continue supporting the growth of the sport in the Philippines."

Supported as well by Coca-Cola, the PFF Women's Cup showcased some of the best of the best in women's football being played in the country, allowed its athletes to have a platform in which to shine. Expect more action down the line with the PFF Women's League slated to take place in 2025.

Vietnam beats the Philippines, Indonesia wins in AFF Women’s Futsal Championship

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Vietnam officially set up its matchup against Thailand for the 2024 edition of the ASEAN Women's Futsal Championship on Tuesday night, defeating the Philippines, 6-1 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

Head coach Nguyen Dinh Hoang highlighted the need to strike first in order to neutralize an expected partisan crowd. However, it was the Philippines that was putting the pressure towards the visitors through their pressing and attack, with Samantha Hughes being tapped to protect the net.

Vietnam did get their shots in, but the Stallion Laguna FC keeper was up to the task to keep things manageable.

They would eventually break through by forcing a turnover. Tran Thi Lan Mai and K’Thua K’Thua double teamed the Philippines’ Lanie Ortillo, eventually getting the ball near the Philippines goal, with the former firing a shot from a sharp angle that got past Hughes.

The Pinay5 would manage to keep it just a one-goal deficit at the break, but Vietnam would eventually pour it on in the second half.

Le Thi Thanh Ngan would double the lead from within the penalty area.

Although Shai del Campo would provide some hope and optimism with her goal off a feed from Hazel Lustan, the visitors would have an immediate answer.

Trinh Nguyen Hang found Nguyen Phoang Anh a minute later to restore the advantage, with the latter flicking the ball past the Filipina defense.

Vietnam would add three more goals before the final whistle: Lan Mai’s second goal that was headed in off a kick in, a scoring run by Tran Thi Thu Xuan where she ran the length of the floor to take an unimpeded shot, and lastly, K’Thua K’Thua’s cut from the outside after a corner kick.

With the victory, Vietnam gets to face off against Thailand in a preview of the final later today.

The defeat means the Philippines cannot lose against Indonesia tonight, as they already own an inferior goal differential against idle Myanmar, -12 to -11. Otherwise, Myanmar will earn the right to face Indonesia for third.

Thailand, Vietnam dominate in second day of AFF Women's Futsal

The Philippines' Alisha Dle Campo battles Thailand's Patitta Moolpho for possession of the ball as Hazel Lustan looks to get into the play. (c/o Philippine Football Federation)

After an opening day of close and intense matches, Day Two of the 2024 AFF Women’s Futsal Championships saw the favorites flex their muscles and rout their respective opponents.

Vietnam came back from a 2-1 deficit to wallop Myanmar with a four-goal second half and a 5-2 win while Thailand crushed the Philippines with a 7-0 victory at the Philsports Arena.

The day began with Vietnam looking to make short work of Myanmar after they scored in the third minute after Thang Hang blasted the ball from outside the penalty area.

Myanmar’s Nang Seng Brim came off the bench to provide much needed dexterity and daring on the pitch to score seven minutes later and whose shot – that rebounded off Vietnamese keeper Ngo Nguyen Thuy Linh – fell the way of an open Sett New Ni for an incredible 2-1 lead that they carried all the way to the halftime break.

It was a different Vietnam that took to the pitch in the second half as they scored barely a minute into the reset for the equalizer. From there it was no looking back Bien Thi Hang’s 1v1 with Burmese keeper Chaw Sandi Aung gave Vietnam a lead they would not relinquish.

Vietnam stymied Nang Sem Brim, and put the game beyond reach via goals from Than Ngan and K’Thua.

“It was a difficult match for us,” said Vietnamese head coach Tran Van Wu who was proud of the way his team fought back. “We didn’t lose our belief and it was a matter of executing our offense.”

Speaking of offense, Thailand kicked in the afterburners when they pummeled the Philippines 7-0.

Switching their offense based on their scouting of Vic Herman’s girls, Vietnam ditched the diagonal runs and moving into spaces that they utilized against Indonesia during their opening day, 1-nil win over Indonesia. This time, through pivot Darika Peanpailun who battled the Philippines’ Isabella Bandoja all the way, as well as Patitta Moolpho who sprayed passes to Paerploy Huajaipetch, Lalida Chimpabut and others.

Sangrawee Meekham pounced on a rebound and blasted it past the Philippines’ valiant keeper Mykaella Abeto for the opening score. Two minutes later, Thailand doubled their lead with a brilliant trick play off a free kick when Peanpailun and Meekham looked to crowd the ball against the smaller Claire Lubetania and Hazel Lustan respectively. 

Right before Sawitree Mamyalee took the shot, Peanpailun and Meekham moved out of the way dragging their defenders leaving Philippine back-up keeper Samantha Hughes open at the net. Mamyalee’s well placed free kick sailed in straight to the right side of the net with Hughes unable to do anything.

From there on, it was a rout. Thailand was up 4-0 at the half after goals Huajaipetch in the 13th minute and Arriya Saetoen in the 17th minute.

Chimpabut (in the 25thminute), Meekham’s brace (29th) and Nattamon Artkla’s goal in the 39th minute as a late substitute gave Thailand two wins in two matches giving them a foot inside the semi-finals door.

The Philippines had their chances to chip away at that lead but the Pinays were unable to finish.

Despite the lopsided loss, Philippines head coach Vic Hermans remained positive. “Past teams would get clobbered in double digits. Even the men’s team lost 22-0 to Thailand. Games like this are good exposure for the girls. We have to play Vietnam and Indonesia and we will give them a good fight.”

Furthermore, despite the tough loss, it was an even bigger crowd of Filipinos that turned out and in spite of the inclement weather. And they cheered up to the end, egging the Pinays to score.

Monday, November 18’s schedule pits Vietnam and Indonesia in the first game at 4pm while Thailand look to cement their spot in the knockout phase when they battle Myanmar at 7pm.