The Filipina5 drew with Australia, 1-1, on Thursday in the 2026 ASEAN Women’s Futsal Championship but fell short of making the semis as they needed to win by at least two goals.
Early on, Australia repeatedly tested the Philippine defense, but goalkeeper Samantha Hughes delivered a commanding first-half display. She produced five crucial saves, including a remarkable double stop from close range to keep the contest scoreless at halftime.
The Philippines gradually found their attacking rhythm in the second half, challenging Australian keeper Sarah Maree Easthope with more purposeful build-up plays. When Hughes briefly exited due to thigh discomfort, substitute Kayla Santiago stepped in seamlessly, thwarting several attempts as Australia pressed for a breakthrough.
Nicole Ramores Scores for the Filipina5
With the clock winding down and the match still level, tension peaked in the final minute.
Cathrine Graversen nearly broke the deadlock after slicing through defenders, but her shot skimmed the side netting. Moments later, a miscue during a Philippine power play left the net exposed, and Australia capitalized, with Clare Holder launching a long-range effort into the empty goal to give her side a 1–0 lead in the 40th minute.
The setback, however, lasted only seconds.
Off the restart, Graversen powered her way past multiple defenders on the right flank and slipped a precise pass into the goalmouth. Substitute Nicole Ramores met it at point-blank range, calmly tapping in the equalizer with just 41 seconds remaining.
The immediate response sealed a dramatic stalemate and underscored the Filipina5’s refusal to yield under pressure.
Strongest ASEAN Showing
The draw secured a four-point finish for the Filipina5, which is their best performance in the regional tournament to date.
Their campaign included a historic 1–0 victory over Myanmar, a competitive 0–2 defeat to defending champions Vietnam, and this resilient result against Australia.
Although Australia and Vietnam advanced to the next round, the Philippines closed the tournament in third place in Group B, marking a significant leap from their debut appearance two years ago.
Under head coach Rafa Merino, the Filipina5 continue to demonstrate steady growth, proving they can compete toe-to-toe with the region’s elite and signaling a bright trajectory for Philippine women’s futsal.
