Heartbreak of a finish for PH futsal five

The Philippines was denied a chance to play for a medal in the AFF (Asean Football Federation) Women’s Futsal Championship in the most heartbreaking way after Wednesday night’s 2-1 loss to Indonesia at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

A few moments away from securing a draw, the Pinay5 conceded Nisma Francida Rusdiana’s winning goal with 1:14 left in the contest that eventually put an end to their campaign held on home soil.

Coach Vic Hermans’ side came into the match needing at least a tie to secure another meeting with Indonesia on the final day of the competition on Thursday. Instead, it was Myanmar which got a shot at a podium finish.

Both the Philippines and Myanmar finished with one point apiece, but the host country was eliminated because of an inferior goal difference.

Team captain Isabella Bandoja equalized for the Pinay5 late in the first half, canceling out Alya Ananda Hendrita’s opener seven minutes into the match. The Pinay5 couldn’t convert on several chances to take the lead or secure a draw in the second half.