Philippine lacrosse squad posts first ever win at women's worlds

MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine lacrosse team made history in the 2026 World Lacross Women’s Championship in Tokyo after scoring its first-ever victory in the tournament at the expense of Czechia, 11-5, Monday. 

The Philippines thus finished the Pool D play with a 1-2 win-loss record. 

The two countries traded goals in the first quarter, after Czechia’s Anna Lottmann and the Philippines’ Steph Lazo scored. 

The Filipinas then punched in five goals in the second quarter courtesy of Sarah Nelson, Annika Bennett, Nia Carrera and Lazo, who scored twice in the frame. 

The onslaught continued for the Philippines as another goal by Sophia Russo pushed their lead to six, 7-1, early on in the third period. 

And while Belle Martire and Marketa Fiserova kept the Czechians within striking distance, 3-7, a free position goal by Abby Manalang, followed by another goal by Ria Lagdameo off the Manalang assist, kept the Filipinas’ distance from their opponents. 

Not even points from Marketa Malinovska and Maggie Keyes could stop the Philippines, as Lazo and Nelson had late insurance goals for the winning squad. 

The Philippines will now take on Wales in the classification round on Thursday. 

This is the country’s debut in the World Championships.