By Chris McAsey
A narrow victory to Singapore over Malaysia in an absorbing Grand Final showed just how far women’s footy has come in Asia after six years of international competition. And while the Singapore Wombettes have now won three of those Championship titles, a host of nations are snapping at their heels thanks to sustained local development efforts.
In the end, strength in squad numbers and physical size helped Singapore and Malaysia through to the Grand Final playoff, but it was a rollercoaster ride of dramatic finishes and upsets along the way.
Cambodia v Singapore
Singapore was beaten by both Thailand and Cambodia in the preliminary round. The Thais gelled better to set up multiple scoring opportunities, kicking 3.7 while Singapore failed to score. And despite trailing at half time after a tight first half in searing heat, Cambodia’s goal just before the final siren sealed their win over Singapore, 1.4 to 0.2.
Similarly, Malaysia was defeated by both Cambodia and Thailand in the preliminary round. The Thais could not buy a goal in their match-up against Malaysia, but still got over the line with an incredible 0.9 to the Warriors’ 1.0.
Neighbours renew their rivalry
Perhaps the most highly-anticipated clash in the opening round was the replay of the inaugural Asia Cup Grand Final in December 2024 between Cambodia and Thailand.
Their clashes have become the pinnacle for showcasing local talent in Asia, with a new generation of athletes joining a core of established players. The latest instalment did not disappoint, with both teams fierce in their attack on the ball and ball carrier.
The Cambodians are known for their committed tackling against all comers, but the Thais also brought the heat in the first half and peppered the goals, leading 0.4 to 0.0 at half time.
Singapore v Cambodia
A tight and desperate second half went down to the wire before a dramatic finish. The Cambodians were awarded a free kick in the dying seconds and had a shot on goal after the siren to win.
The kick was first called a goal by the goal umpire – sparking a Cambodian celebration – before the field umpire over-ruled and signalled a behind, with the Thais prevailing 0.5 to 0.1.
Tables turned in tight semis
With the competition format guaranteeing all four teams a semi-final berth, the Cup was well and truly still up for grabs going into the second round.
In the first semi-final, Thailand’s wayward kicking for goal (scoring a total of 3 goals and 21 behinds in the opening round) caught up with them, while Malaysia made the most of their opportunities, running out winners 2.0 to 1.2.
Thailand v Malaysia
In the second semi-final, a tired Cambodian team – who had arrived at midnight the day before the Champs after a long flight delay – were over-run by Singapore, setting up a Grand Final clash with their close neighbour Malaysia.
Final Div 1 Standings
- Singapore Wombettes
- Malaysian Warriors
- Thailand Tigers
- Cambodian Eagles
Women’s Grand Final match report – Wombettes win a thriller to take Div 1 title
