BANGKOK, Thailand – The Philippine women’s national football team, the Filipinas, etched their name in history with a 2-1 victory over defending champions Vietnam in the final of the 33rd Southeast Asian Games on Wednesday, December 18, 2025, at Chonburi Stadium. The triumph—coming via a dramatic late winner—ended Vietnam’s remarkable 13-year stranglehold on the gold medal and delivered the Philippines’ first-ever SEA Games women’s football title.
The match was a tense affair, with Vietnam striking first in the 28th minute through a clinical finish from captain Huynh Nhu. The Filipinas equalized in the 62nd minute courtesy of a Chandler McDaniel header off a pinpoint cross from Sara Eggesvik. The breakthrough came in the 88th minute when Isabella Flanigan pounced on a defensive lapse to slot home the winner, sending the traveling Pinoy supporters into ecstasy.
Coach Mark Torcaso praised the resilience: “This team fought with heart—overcoming Vietnam on their home turf is massive. It’s for every Filipina who dreamed of this moment.” Standouts like Eggesvik (MVP contender) and goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel (key saves) embodied the squad’s blend of grit and skill.
The gold caps a breakthrough tournament for the Filipinas, who navigated a tough group and semifinals against Thailand. It follows the men’s team’s bronze, marking a double podium for Philippine football—the best combined result in decades.
As the team returns home heroes, this historic gold isn’t just a medal—it’s a milestone, inspiring the next generation and silencing doubters in a sport rising in the Philippines.
Final Score: Philippines 2-1 Vietnam
Goal Scorers (PH):
- Chandler McDaniel (62′)
- Isabella Flanigan (88′)
SEA Games Women’s Football Podium:
| Rank | Team | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| Gold | Philippines | Gold |
| Silver | Vietnam | Silver |
| Bronze | Thailand/Indonesia | Bronze (shared or TBD) |