The final of the 2025 AFF Women’s Championship saw an intense clash between U23 Australia and Myanmar. The Australians took the initiative early, pressing high and controlling the tempo, but were repeatedly frustrated by Myanmar’s disciplined defense and their outstanding goalkeeper.

The second half brought even more excitement as the Australians launched wave after wave of attacks, only to be denied by the woodwork. The breakthrough finally came in the 67th minute, when Holly Furphy finished off a well-executed move with a close-range strike that broke the deadlock.

Myanmar pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but their efforts were ultimately in vain as Australia’s defense held firm. With a 1-0 result, U23 Australia claimed the title of 2025 AFF Women’s Champions.

The win was a deserved reward for Australia’s superior physical strength and technical skill. Meanwhile, Myanmar left the tournament with heads held high after an inspiring run marked by resilience and determination.

Scorer: U23 Australia: Furphy (67’)

Starting lineups

Myanmar: Nyein Myo, Ya Oo, Mon Myint, Phyu Phwe, Phyu Win, Htet Wai, Theingi Tun, Thaw Thaw, Mo Tun, Per Khine, Lae Oo
U23 Australia: Lincoin, Gomez, Tumeth, Cerne, Johnton, Chessari, Cicco, Jancevski, Furphy, Keane, McKenn

Match timeline

The final whistle confirmed U23 Australia’s 1-0 triumph over Myanmar, securing their place at the top of Southeast Asian women’s football. Myanmar, despite strong performances throughout the tournament, fell short in their pursuit of a first regional title, following previous final losses to both Vietnam and Thailand.

The second half featured six minutes of added time, as Myanmar struggled to match Australia’s physicality and could not maintain attacking momentum in the closing stages.

Despite trailing, Myanmar’s players pushed forward in the 74th minute hoping to level the score, but were stifled by Australia's solid defense.

The turning point came in the 67th minute when Holly Furphy pounced during a goalmouth scramble to slot the ball home, finally unlocking Myanmar’s defense.

Earlier in the 58th minute, Australia struck the crossbar twice in three minutes, heightening the pressure on Myanmar. The Australians continued their relentless attacking in the second half but were repeatedly denied by stout defending and narrow misses.

The first half ended goalless despite numerous chances. In stoppage time before the break, Nyein Myo made a brilliant save to deny a powerful shot from inside the box.

At the 45th minute, Myanmar captain Theingi Tun had a solo effort and shot from a tight angle, but lacked the power to trouble keeper Lincoin.

Throughout the opening 40 minutes, Australia’s young players struggled to find a way through Myanmar’s compact defense. Though they controlled possession and pressed hard, the breakthrough remained elusive.

In the 20th minute, Myanmar created a rare chance in Australia’s box, but their defenders reacted quickly to nullify the threat.

Earlier, in the 13th and 15th minutes, Jancevski fired two shots that tested Nyein Myo, one forcing a difficult save and the other requiring a double effort to secure the ball.

The game opened with intensity. Australia created danger from an early corner, while Myanmar responded with a long-range shot that sailed wide.

Japanese referee Yoshimi blew the whistle to start the final at 8:00 PM local time. Both teams entered the pitch under the watch of the officiating crew moments before kickoff. Players warmed up in front of the crowd as anticipation built.

Pre-match preview

Both teams reached the final after dramatic campaigns. Myanmar surprised many by defeating Thailand, the Philippines, and notably U23 Australia in the group stage. However, the Australians rebounded strongly after their early loss.

With strategic adjustments by coach Joe Palatsides, U23 Australia won three straight matches, including a convincing victory over Vietnam, to earn a spot in the final.

The rematch with Myanmar was billed as a thrilling conclusion. Although Myanmar had won the earlier encounter, Australia had since addressed their aerial vulnerabilities and sharpened their disciplined style of play. Myanmar’s coach, Tetsuro Uki, needed a flawless defensive strategy and clinical finishing to repeat their group-stage success.

Thien Binh