Filipina5 may be out of the competition, but the hosts are eyeing a graceful exit in the Futsal Women's World Cup Philippines 2025.
The Filipina5 will try to close their historic FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup Philippines 2025 campaign on a positive note when they face unbeaten Argentina on Thursday, November 27.
The match tees off 8:30 p.m. at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig.
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At 0–2, nothing is exactly at stake for the host nation against the Group A leaders, but the Philippines are determined to put up a graceful exit in their first-ever World Cup appearance.
The Filipinas are coming off a heartbreaking 2–3 loss to Morocco, a match where they appeared headed for a landmark victory.
Inday Tolentin and Cathrine Graversen struck early to give the Philippines a stunning 2–0 cushion, but world No. 31 Morocco answered with three goals before halftime, and their disciplined defense held the hosts scoreless the rest of the way.
Despite the disappointment, coach Rafa Merino said the Filipina5 must remain locked in on finishing proudly in front of the home crowd.
“It is a big disappointing because we started with two points. So the team is quite affected by that but it cannot let us down because we still have one more game to play. After this we still have to find the strength to fight it, fight in the next game," Merino said after the match witnessed by over 1,700 fans.
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That next test is a massive one.
Argentina, at 2–0, have already secured a quarterfinal berth after routing Morocco 6–0 and edging Poland 3–2. The South American powerhouse will enter as heavy favorites, but the Filipina5 hope their grit, improved chemistry, and home support will push them toward a memorable finish.
With pride on the line and the country behind them, the Philippines close their World Cup debut aiming to leave the tournament with a performance that reflects their heart, fight, and promise for the future.
[ALSO READ: Despite loss, Filipina5 defender Cathrine Graversen finds consolation in first Futsal World Cup goal]
(With reports from Jan Ballesteros)
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[Editor’s note: This article was written by a member of One Sports Digital with the help of AI and reviewed by editorial staff for accuracy.]