Philippines qualify for 2027 Women’s World Cup after beating Uzbekistan in Asian Cup play-offs

The Philippines reached next year’s World Cup in Brazil after scoring twice in five minutes and beating Uzbekistan 2-0 in the Women’s Asian Cup play-offs on Thursday.

Angela Beard smashed home the ball in the 47th minute on Australia’s Gold Coast and Jaclyn Sawicki added a second with her head to secure passage to the global showpiece for a second time.

Australia, China, Japan and South Korea have also qualified for Brazil after reaching the semi-finals of the Asian Cup.

One final spot remains up for grabs when North Korea faces Taiwan later on Thursday in the other play-off match between the losing quarter-finalists.

Uzbekistan, which has never played at a World Cup, has one last chance to qualify through the inter-confederation play-offs, which provide two extra tickets.

The Philippines, ranked 40 in the world, has been on the rise of late under Australian coach Mark Torcaso, who won gold at the Southeast Asian Games last year.

It first played at a World Cup in 2023, when it was co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

Then, led by another Australian, Alen Stajcic, it won one and lost two games to finish bottom of the group.

Australia and Japan meet in the Asian Cup final on Saturday dhjg.

Published on March 19, 2026