By: Icko de Guzman
Since their exit from the FIFA Women’s World Cup in July 2023, the Philippine Women’s National Team vowed to return to the world stage.
Under the warm afternoon sun at Gold Coast Stadium, the Filipinas did just that—completing their comeback in dramatic fashion.
On their third attempt at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026, the Philippines delivered a storybook ending, securing a place in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup with a commanding 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the play-off.
After a nervy first half, the Filipinas came out firing in the second. Jael Marie Guy orchestrated both goals, setting up Angela Beard in the 47th minute and Jaclyn Sawicki in the 52nd, sealing their spot among the 32 teams headed to Brazil.
Beard broke the deadlock just two minutes into the second half, converting a superb volley off Guy’s cross after being denied twice in the opening period. Five minutes later, Sawicki doubled the advantage, rising to meet another precise delivery from Guy on the right flank and powering home a well-taken header.
With the win, the Philippines join hosts Australia, along with Japan, China, and South Korea, in booking their tickets to Brazil, while Chinese Taipei and North Korea will battle for the remaining berth later today.
