In their inaugural appearance at the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Women’s Championship finals, the Filipinas secured a remarkable victory, clinching the crown.
This momentous achievement came after the Filipinas’ first-ever qualification for the AFF finals series in the 11-nation tournament. Prior to this, the Philippine team’s highest placement in the AFF series was fourth during the 2019 edition, hosted by Thailand.
On July 17, 2022, dressed in fiery red uniforms, the Philippine Women’s National Football Team made history with a resounding 3-0 win against Thailand in the AFF finals, held at Manila’s Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The Filipinas avenged their earlier defeat to the Thais in the group stage, where they were denied the Group A winner status.
During the match, Jessika Cowart (8th minute) and Katrina Guillou (20th minute) scored two goals in the first half, while Sarina Bolden (89th minute) secured the third goal in the second half, captivating a local crowd of over 8,000 supporters.
Journey to the AFF Women’s Championship Crown
- The Filipinas’ journey began with an upset victory over the 12th-ranked Matildas of Australia, winning 1-0 on July 4.
- Following that triumph, the Philippine women’s team dominated the Lionesses of Singapore, winning 7-0 on July 6.
- Continuing their winning streak, the hometown team triumphed over Malaysia’s Tigers with a score of 4-0 on July 8.
- By defeating Indonesia 4-1 on July 10, the team secured four wins, guaranteeing them a spot in the semifinals.
- Their bid for Group A winner status was halted by Thailand’s lone goal on July 12.
As the runner-up in Group A, the Philippine team faced Vietnam, the defending champions and winners of Group B. In an impressive display, the Filipinas defeated Vietnam 4-0 on July 15, earning them a historic spot in the AFF Women’s Championship finals.
Head coach Alen Stajcic praised the team’s perseverance, stating, “To finish like that with so much spirit and determination is a testament to this team.”
He added, “We’ve overcome a small hurdle tonight. We’ve conquered Southeast Asia, but I’m aware that greater challenges lie ahead. It’s a significant achievement, but there are even bigger mountains to climb.”
The Filipinas, formerly known as the Malditas, are now preparing for their inaugural FIFA World Cup appearance in 2023, which will take place in New Zealand and Australia.
