THE Philippines put up a stiff resistance, before going down in a 0-2 setback to defending champion Vietnam, late Wednesday in the 2026 ASEAN Women’s Futsal Championship.
Despite the loss, the Filipina5 stood their ground defensively, with goalie Samantha Hughes’ crucial saves, including a penalty stop against Le Thi Than Nganh in the 16th minute of their clash at the Terminal 21 Korat pitch in at Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
Vrendelle Nuera, Maye Mendaño, and Sarahgen Tulabing also provided timely blocks and recovery pressure.
Momentum shifted in Vietnam’s favor early, when Inday Tolentin, left with a foot injury in the fifth minute.
Vietnam capitalized seconds later, and Le Thi Thanh Ngan took charge during a 1–2 combo attack with Nguyen Phuong Anh off a right-sided kick-in, penetrating the Filipina5′ defense in the next play.
The Vietnamese side finally doubled their lead in the 37th minute when Bien Thi Hang blasted a long-range effort from the far right, following Tran Thi Thuy Trang’s short kick-in.
The Filipina5 kept their defenses tight in the remaining time and tried to score a goal off Charisa Lemoran.
But Lemoran’s strike from the right flank just rattled the crossbar.
The Filipina5 are now in a must-win scenario against a strong Australia squad in their next game.
