Strong start: Filipinas thrash Timor-Leste 7–0 in ASEAN Cup debut

The Philippines women’s national football team kicked off their title defense in emphatic fashion, routing Timor-Leste, 7–0, on Thursday night at Viet Tri Stadium in the 2025 ASEAN MSIG Serenity Cup.

With a blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent, the Filipinas wasted no time asserting control. Just two minutes into the match, international debutant Aaliyah Schinaman found the back of the net, setting the tone for a lopsided affair.

Adding two goals in the 7th and 32nd minutes, star striker Quinley Quezada made her mark. Team captain Hali Long contributed a powerful header in the ninth minute. For her dynamic performance on both ends of the pitch, Dionesa Tolentin registered a brace (57’, 64’) and was later named Player of the Match.

The onslaught continued in the second half as another debutant, Adelaide Wyrzynski, scored in the 75th minute to cap the Filipinas’ emphatic win.

“Overall, I think it was pretty good—the goals that we wanted to get. We definitely could have gotten more, so there’s still growing and learning. But I’m really proud of the group we put out today, and all the subs brought great energy,” said Long. 

With the win, the Philippines moved to the top of Group B, ahead of Myanmar, which earlier upset Australia U23, 2–1. The Filipinas will next face Australia U23 on August 10 in a crucial group-stage matchup.

“We don’t take any team lightly. We’re looking forward to reviewing that match with Myanmar and seeing what results we can pull in the next game,” Long added.

The Philippines are aiming to defend the title they first claimed in 2022 on home soil.