The Philippine women’s national football team advanced to the knockout stage of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup via goal difference, thanks to Japan’s 4-0 win over Vietnam.
The Philippine women’s national football team received a timely boost from Japan to secure a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
Japan defeated Vietnam, 4-0, on Tuesday at the Perth Rectangular Stadium, a result that allowed the Filipinas to advance to the next round by virtue of goal difference.
The Philippines finished third in a loaded Group A that featured South Korea, host nation Australia, and Iran.
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Despite a -2 goal difference, the Filipinas edged through the standings due to the overall group results after Japan’s dominant win over Vietnam. Uzbekistan, also with a -2 goal difference but with more goals made, also advanced.
The Filipinas secured their crucial points earlier in the tournament with a 2-0 victory over Iran, a result that ultimately proved decisive in keeping their knockout-stage hopes alive.
With the favorable result, the FIFA Women's World Cup dream remains alive for the Filipinas. They can qualify outright by making the semifinals of the AFC Women's Asian Cup.
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The Philippines will actually have two chances to make the World Cup, as a loss in the quarterfinals would send the team to the play-in, where another two slots are up for grabs.
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Kiko Demigillo’s journey in sports storytelling began with a deep passion for games and athletes, which eventually grew into a full-fledged career.
Now a dedicated sportswriter, Kiko covers a wide range of beats for One Sports, including the PVL, UAAP, PBA, and various international tournaments.