The Philippine Women’s Futsal National Team played their first friendly matches in recent times against Guam over the past weekend 15-16 October 2022 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium in Manila.
The team, known as the Pinay5, yielded to Guam on the first day, 0-1, but were able to bounce back the next day with a 3-1 win in front 300 spectators who attended the friendly matches.
Saturday’s clash saw the Pinay5 with the lion’s share of chances but Guam’s solitary strike from Koharu Minato was the lone difference in the match despite the Philippines getting numerous chances on goal.
Sunday’s rematch was a different affair altogether. Hanna Muros fired from outside the box to put the Philippines ahead five minutes in to the first half.
Aurea Reaso doubled the Pinay5’s lead just seconds before half-time with a close ranged strike off a Catherine Calatine delivery inside the box.
Minato reduced the Philippines lead in the 24th minute. Colleen Naden sent a ball to the forward, who fired towards the near post of Mykaela Abeto.
However, Jacqueline Ballares ensured the two goal cushion with a timely volley inside the penalty area to put the Philippines, 3-1, up in the 27th minute. Skipper Jamielyn Nañez almost added a fourth goal in the rout, but was disallowed due to the indirect free kick called.
“I am really happy about the outcome of this series, although I believe we were the better team the other day despite the loss,” said head coach Vic Hermans. “I am surprised how these girls are coming together despite the short time we had to train.”