The Philippine women’s football team, the Filipinas, created history by advancing to the finals of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games for the first time. In a thrilling semifinal at Chonburi Daikin Stadium, the Filipinas overcame host Thailand in dramatic fashion, rallying from a 0-1 deficit and securing a 4-2 victory in a penalty shootout that left fans in awe.
Late Equalizer Sparks Comeback
Thailand looked poised to end the Filipinas’ historic run when Mongkoldee Jiraporn capitalized on a defensive lapse to score in the 53rd minute. The Pinay booters, however, refused to give up. In the 86th minute, a handball by a Thai defender inside the penalty box gave the Filipinas a crucial opportunity. Jael Marie Guy calmly converted the spot-kick, leveling the score and igniting celebrations among the outnumbered Filipino supporters in the stands. Despite 30 minutes of extra time, neither side could break the deadlock, forcing a tense penalty shootout.
Philippine Team Shows Composure in Shootout
In the high-pressure shootout, the Filipinas displayed nerves of steel. Guy, Alessandra Carpio, Sara Eggesvik, and captain Hali Long successfully converted their kicks, while Thailand faltered with two crucial misses. The 4-2 result sent the Philippine team into jubilation, marking a historic first finals appearance in Southeast Asian Games women’s football.
Eyes on SEAG Gold
With momentum on their side, the Filipinas now set their sights on defending champion Vietnam in the finals on December 17. The team had already beaten Vietnam 1-0 in group play, giving them confidence as they aim to capture the country’s first-ever SEAG gold in women’s football and add another milestone to their growing list of achievements on the regional and international stage.
