Team Philippines Qualifies for 2027 World Lacrosse Championship After Historic Win

Team Philippines delivered a historic performance after defeating Japan in a thrilling double-overtime match at the 2026 Asia-Pacific Men’s Lacrosse Championship, earning a coveted spot in the 2027 World Lacrosse Men’s Championship.

The tightly contested game tested the endurance and composure of both teams, with neither side willing to concede through regulation time and the first overtime period. Philippine players showed remarkable resilience and discipline, executing crucial defensive stops and capitalizing on key scoring opportunities to seal the victory in the second overtime.

The win marks a major milestone for Philippine lacrosse, as it places the country among the world’s elite teams set to compete on the global stage in 2027. Japan, long considered a powerhouse in Asian lacrosse, pushed Team Philippines to the limit, making the triumph even more significant.

Officials and supporters hailed the result as a reflection of years of grassroots development, overseas Filipino athlete participation, and growing international exposure for the sport. The qualification also highlights the rising competitiveness of Southeast Asian teams in traditionally Western-dominated sports.

As Team Philippines prepares for the World Championship, the victory is expected to inspire greater interest in lacrosse nationwide, encouraging young athletes to pursue the sport and strengthening the country’s presence in international competitions.