Philippine Women’s Football Team Reaches SEA Games Final After Thrilling Win Over Thailand

CHONBURI — In a historic moment for Philippine football, the women’s national team secured their first-ever berth in the Southeast Asian Games final following a dramatic semifinal victory over host nation Thailand on Sunday night, December 14, 2025.

The Filipinas overcame a 0-1 deficit to force extra time and eventually triumphed 4-2 in a nerve-wracking penalty shootout at the Chonburi Daikin Stadium, stunning the home crowd and etching a new chapter in the country’s football legacy.

Thailand initially took the lead in the 53rd minute through Mongkoldee Jiraporn after a defensive error, igniting a fervent reaction from local fans and putting the Philippines under severe pressure.

However, exhibiting remarkable resilience, the Filipinas equalized late in regulation when Jael Marie Guy calmly converted a penalty in the 86th minute, awarded for a handball inside the box. This crucial goal extended the match into extra time, but neither team could break the deadlock during the additional 30 minutes.

The showdown was ultimately decided by penalties. The Philippine team displayed remarkable composure, with Guy, Alessandra Carpio, Sara Eggesvik, and captain Hali Long all confidently scoring their spot-kicks. The turning point came when Thai player Pluemjai Sontisawat’s penalty struck the post. After Long sealed the win with a successful fourth penalty, the Filipinas erupted in celebration as Orapin Waenngoen’s final attempt sailed over the crossbar, ending the contest.

With this landmark victory, the Philippines will face defending champions Vietnam in the SEA Games final on December 17. The upcoming match is highly anticipated, especially after the Filipinas edged Vietnam 1-0 in the group stage. Vietnam secured their finals spot earlier by decisively defeating Indonesia 5-0.

This achievement adds to a series of historic milestones for the Philippine women’s football program, following their impressive run in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and their breakthrough ASEAN championship at home. Now, the team stands just one win away from claiming their inaugural SEA Games gold medal."