The inaugural PFF Futsaliga Women’s Division is headed for a thrilling conclusion after Far Eastern University and Beach Hut FC secured their places in the Women’s Cup Final with contrasting semifinal victories Sunday at the Philsports Arena.

FEU delivered a commanding performance in the first semifinal, blanking Enderun Colleges, 4-0, behind a clinical brace from UAAP Golden Boot winner Judie Arevalo. Meanwhile, Beach Hut FC needed a dramatic late winner to survive a grueling 1-0 tactical battle against Azkals Development Club, setting the stage for an explosive championship showdown on May 17.

Lady Tamaraws dominate

Despite missing head coach Let Dimzon for a second consecutive match due to national team duties, the Lady Tamaraws maintained their composure and attacking identity. FEU initially struggled to convert multiple scoring opportunities but eventually found their breakthrough late in the first half through Arevalo’s finishing brilliance.

Once FEU found its rhythm, the Lady Tamaraws seized complete control and never looked back. Their organized attack and relentless pressure overwhelmed Enderun, proving why they remain one of the tournament’s top contenders.

“Marami po kaming chances na hindi na-convert, so nag-adjust po kami during the last minutes and eventually na-convert na namin yung scoring chances,” Arevalo said.

Arevalo also emphasized the team’s relentless preparation and determination to prove FEU’s versatility beyond traditional football.

“Araw-araw pa rin po kaming nagt-training kahit wala si Coach Let. Yung mga kulang namin noong last few games, iyon yung ini-improve namin. Gigil din po kami kasi ngayon lang po ata sumali ang FEU sa futsal, kaya gusto naming ipakita na hindi lang sa football kami magaling, pati rin sa futsal,” she added.

Beach Hut survives thriller

The second semifinal delivered arguably the most dramatic contest of the tournament, as Beach Hut FC and ADC engaged in a physical, tactical war that appeared destined for extra time. Both teams traded defensive stops, with goalkeepers making critical saves to preserve the deadlock.

Beach Hut goalkeeper Kayla Santiago emerged as a major hero after producing a massive double save against ADC’s Caitlyn Panilan in the closing moments. Her heroics kept Beach Hut alive before the decisive breakthrough arrived.

With just 42 seconds left, Beach Hut launched a stunning counterattack as Jodie Banzon powered through the ADC defense before finding Samantha Toledo, who buried the winning goal to send Beach Hut into the final.

“Actually, with this game, I think this is the hardest game and best game na nakita ko sa Futsaliga. Yung resilience talaga ng team namin sobrang taas kanina, and yung grit na makakuha lang talaga kami ng isang goal, yun lang naman yung kailangan namin,” Beach Hut head coach Fitch Arboleda said.

Arboleda also praised ADC’s resilience while highlighting his own team’s poise under immense pressure.

“Hands down pa rin sa ADC dahil pinakita talaga nila na isa sila sa pinakamalalakas na team dito. Luckily, naka-score kami with 40 seconds left. Kudos sa team namin na talagang nag-show up para manalo,” he added.

Championship clash awaits

Beach Hut now faces FEU in what promises to be a highly anticipated final between two teams that reached the title match through vastly different paths. FEU showcased dominant offensive firepower, while Beach Hut proved it can grind out victories under extreme pressure.

In the Women’s Plate Division, the University of Makati crushed Forza, 16-0, behind five goals from Jules Cabal, while Philippine Women’s University edged Azzurri, 2-1, to secure the other Plate Final berth.

With both FEU and Beach Hut displaying elite-level performances, the inaugural Women’s Cup Final now carries major significance for Philippine futsal’s continued growth.

The championship showdown at the “House of Futsal” on May 17 is expected to deliver a fitting climax to the groundbreaking tournament, with kickoff set for 8 AM and free admission for fans.