Defending champion Iran banked on a late goal from Maral Torkaman to pull off a 1-0 victory over the Philippines in the opening match of the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Futsal Asian Cup China 2025 on Wednesday in Hohhot, China.
The 22-year-old Torkaman struck in the 37th minute, spoiling the tournament debut of the Philippines
Iran went on to score in their 10th match, after claiming the title in both previous editions in 2015 and 2018.
The Philippines got off to a strong start, taking the game to its opponents from the start.
Isabella Bandoja led the Filipina5’s offensive and nearly gave them the lead in the third minute.
But Iranian booter Farzaneh Tavasoli denied Bandoja in a one-on-one situation before the rebound was chipped just over by Isabella Flanigan.
Iran got into the groove, with efforts from Mahtab Banaei, Nasimeh Gholami and Torkaman.
The Iranians continued the pressure, with Elham Anafjeh and Fereshteh Karimi putting their chances wide.
The Filipinas5, behind Hughes, the youngest player at this tournament at 16, held off Iran’s other shots, which Included an outstanding double save on Torkaman and Banaei.
Tavasoli then repulsed a dangerous attack from Dionesa Tolentin, whose point-blank shots were fended off twice.
