The 2025 Women’s Futsal World Cup kicked off Friday in Manila, Philippines, wiht Spain defeating Thailand 5-2 in a Group B matchup. despite a valiant effort from the fourth-ranked Thai squad, the second-ranked Spanish team proved too strong, establishing an early lead in the tournament.
This marks the first competitive fixture for both teams in this year’s event, which runs through December 10th and features 32 nations competing for the championship title.
Thailand Falls to Spain 5-2 in Women’s Futsal World Cup Opener
Manila, Philippines – Spain defeated Thailand 5-2 in their opening match of the 2025 Women’s Futsal World Cup on Friday, November 22nd, at the PhilSports Arena in Manila. The result sets an early tone in Group B of the tournament, which features some of the world’s top futsal nations.
Thailand, ranked fourth in the world, faced a tough challenge against second-ranked Spain. Coach Thanahtorn Santanaprasit started with a lineup of Sasiprapa Suksene (GK), Jenjira Bubpha, Areeya Saeturn, Nuttamon Ajkla, and Darika Pienpaylun.
Spain came out aggressively, with Irene Córdoba firing a shot just wide of the net in the 4th minute. Thailand quickly responded with a chance of their own, as Saengravee Meekham’s left-footed attempt sailed off target.
The Thai side continued to press, and in the 6th minute, Praeploy Huajai Phet’s shot was saved by Spain’s Elena González.
Spain broke the deadlock in the 7th minute when Sotero Vañe dribbled past a defender and slotted the ball home, giving Spain a 1-0 lead.
Thailand quickly leveled the score in the 9th minute, with Jenjira Bubpha capitalizing on a chance to make it 1-1.
However, Spain regained the lead just two minutes later, as Irene Córdoba found the back of the net with a right-footed shot, making it 2-1.
Thailand fought back again in the 14th minute, with Sasikarn Thongdee scoring to tie the game at 2-2 after a strong press and turnover.
Spain once again surged ahead in the 16th minute, with Laura Córdoba scoring from distance to put Spain up 3-2.
Nuttamon Ajkla nearly equalized for Thailand in the 20th minute, but her long-range effort was denied by González. The first half ended with Spain leading 3-2.
Spain tightened their defense in the second half. In the 26th minute, Vañe Sotelo’s attempt was saved by Sasiprapa Suksene.
Spain extended their lead to 4-2 in the 28th minute with a goal from Laura Córdoba off a corner kick.
Sasikarn Thongdee had another opportunity for Thailand in the 30th minute, but her shot was deflected and saved by Elena González.
Spain sealed the victory in the 32nd minute when Irene Samper set up Maria Sanz Navarro for a 5-2 lead.
The score remained unchanged for the remainder of the match, resulting in a 5-2 defeat for Thailand.
In the other Group B match, Colombia defeated Canada 2-0.
Thailand will next face Canada, ranked 74th in the world, on November 25th at 5:00 PM Thailand time, live on YouTube: BG SPORTS.
