The Filipina5 revived their hopes of reaching the semifinals of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games by holding off Malaysia 3–1 on Saturday at the Bangkokthonburi University Gymnasium in Samut Prakan.
Inday Tolentin wasted no time, giving the Filipina5 the lead in the fourth minute.
The three-time UAAP women’s football champion now has three goals across the national team’s last five matches, including both the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup and this tournament.
Isabella Bandoja extended the lead in the sixth minute, giving coach Rafa Merino’s side a cushion against Malaysia.
However, the Majestic Tigers pulled one back in the 39th minute through Farahiyah Ridzuan, sparking a late push.
Maye Mendaño then sealed the win with a 40th-minute goal.
The former De La Salle University defender’s long-range strike found the empty net, ending Malaysia’s desperate search for an equalizer.
The match was not without controversy. Vince Santos, the Philippine Football Federation’s Director of Football, received a straight red card late in the first half for persistent protests against the referee’s decisions.
The victory gave the Filipina5 three points in Group A and improved their goal difference to minus-4.
For the Philippines to advance to the next phase, they will need Malaysia to drop points against Thailand tomorrow at 5:30 PM (Manila time) at the same venue.
