THE PHILIPPINE women’s softball team put up a valiant effort but faced a tough defeat against Canada, losing 0-5 in an intense Group C match during the Women’s Softball World Cup on Saturday, July 22 (Manila time) in Italy.

Despite entering the tournament with high motivation and confidence, the 26th-ranked Blu Girls were outmatched by the 5th-ranked Canadian team.

“Our opponents were undoubtedly formidable and proved to be better than us this time. Nevertheless, looking ahead, the team has reevaluated their strategies and learned from their mistakes, which could potentially aid them in bouncing back against the remaining contenders,” stated Jean Henri Lhuillier, president and benefactor of the Amateur Softball Association of the Philippines.

Although facing this setback, the Blu Girls remain optimistic about their chances to advance in the next round. Their upcoming challenge awaits against No. 2 Japan, the reigning Asia Cup champion, at 11 p.m. on Sunday, July 23 (Manila time).

Group C comprises other formidable teams, including No. 8 Italy, No. 22 Venezuela, and No. 29 New Zealand.

This marks the Blu Girls’ seventh appearance in the World Baseball Softball Confederation World Cup. Their best achievement to date was securing third place in 1970.

In Group A action, held in Ireland, the defending champions United States dominated Great Britain with a resounding 7-0 victory in the final, while Australia outplayed Great Britain 4-1 in the repechage.

Meanwhile, in Group B action held in Spain, Puerto Rico secured a close 2-1 victory against China in the final, with China later suffering a 2-0 loss to the Netherlands in the repechage game.