Former Matildas manager Alen Stajcic led the Philippines to a groundbreaking achievement, making them the first team from their country, regardless of gender, to reach the finals of a global soccer tournament. An early opener for them was denied as midfielder Katrina Guillou's strike was ruled out for offside. Switzerland's leading scorer and most capped player, Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic, missed a chance from close range before Bachmann's penalty gave them the lead.

"If it's a VAR decision - from my understanding - it's supposed to be a clear and obvious error," Stajcic said of the penalty. "I didn't see the replay.

"There's no doubt they are the better team, and they should be. I was really proud of the spirit that our team showed. I think we showed that we can be competitive.

"To come to this level and play against players from Europe, against a team like that is miraculous."

Switzerland asserted dominance in the second half and rightfully extended their lead with midfielder Piubel's powerful strike in the 64th minute, following saves from McDaniel on attempts by Crnogorcevic and Sow.