Brazil clinch historic futsal world crown in Manila

The inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup™ concluded in Manila with Brazil claiming the sport’s first global title after a dominant 3–0 win over Portugal.

The tournament final, held before a packed crowd of more than 5,000 at the PhilSports Arena, showcased Brazil’s attacking firepower led by Emilly, who delivered a thunderous strike that set the tone for the championship match.

The opening goal came from a familiar combination as Ana Luiza, playing with her back to goal, rolled the ball into Emilly’s path to unleash their trademark finish.

Brazil doubled their lead through Amandinha, who lifted a delicate shot into the net to put her team firmly in control.

Debora Vanin later sealed the victory, completing a performance that secured Brazil’s place in history as the first women’s futsal world champions.

Brazil coach Wilson Saboia praised his team’s achievement and the wider impact of the tournament. “[I’m] really happy. The players are amazing, the coaching staff is wonderful. It leaves huge legacy because it will further popularise futsal in schools, clubs, universities. All of this will produce better coaches and players.”

Portugal, despite falling short in the final, capped an impressive campaign in which Ana Catarina Pereira and Lidia Moreira earned individual awards for their performances.

Portugal coach Luis Conceicao acknowledged Brazil’s superiority while commending his own squad. “Congratulations to Brazil. They were better. We had an incredible competition. We are very proud to reach this stage. It wasn’t enough, Brazil are a very strong team with a lot of individual quality. I’m very proud of my players. We greatly honoured Portuguese women’s futsal and the Portuguese people.”

Brazil’s win extended their world-record streak to 43 consecutive victories, a run in which they have scored 303 goals and conceded only 17.

Earlier in the day, Spain secured the bronze medal with a 5–1 win over Argentina, powered by Laura Cordoba’s standout performance.

Argentina pivot Mailen Romero said her team fought hard despite the loss. “We came into this match with the same joy as always. We knew we had to switch our mindsets. We had to play for third place and couldn’t get the result. Spain are a great team, but I’m proud of my team-mates because they gave everything.”

Cordoba attributed Spain’s victory to composure and defensive stability. “When they scored, we didn’t lose our heads. We knew that with their five-player system, they would be strong in attack, but our defence is very solid. We stayed calm and continued to play the way we were. They played a really good game, but we created a lot of chances.”

The Cordoba twins recorded a combined 18 goal involvements during Philippines 2025, with Irene tallying seven goals and one assist, and Laura scoring five and providing five assists.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino also congratulated the Philippines for its successful hosting of the landmark tournament, noting its strong fan turnout and global impact.

“A big, big thank you to pH the Philippines for being such incredible hosts of the first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, including a full house of over 5,000 fans at the final! This first edition of this tournament has set such high standards on and off the pitch and everyone involved should be extremely proud of their contributions.”