Cebuana Lhuillier-backed Blu Girls Stay in the Hunt Despite Opening Setback, Shift Focus to Japan Showdown
By Marlon Bernardino
PhilBoxing.com
Wed, 15 Jul 2026
The Cebuana Lhuillier-backed Blu Girls opened their campaign in the WBSC Women's Softball World Cup Group Stage in Lima, Peru with a 5-8 loss to Venezuela on Wednesday, but the national team remains firmly focused on bouncing back as it continues its bid for a place in the WBSC Women's Softball World Cup Finals 2027 in Australia.
The Philippines and Venezuela each collected 10 hits, but the Venezuelans capitalized on two four-run innings to claim the victory. Pinch hitter Diana Arcay delivered the decisive blow with a three-run home run in the top of the sixth inning, while Veronica Antequera drove in three runs and Yulexys Barrios added two RBIs. Veteran reliever Michelle Floyd earned the win after escaping a crucial fourth-inning threat, while Royevel Palma took the loss for the Blu Girls.
"We knew coming into this tournament that every game would be a challenge because we are competing against some of the best softball nations in the world," said ASAPHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier. "While today's result is disappointing, it does not define this team. The Blu Girls have always shown resilience in the face of adversity, and I believe they will respond with the determination and fighting spirit that have become their trademark. We still have everything to play for, and I have full confidence that they can bounce back stronger in the games ahead."
The setback puts greater importance on the Philippines' remaining four round-robin games, beginning with a showdown against defending world champion and world No. 1 Japan. The six-team tournament features Japan, Puerto Rico, Great Britain, the Philippines, Venezuela, and host Peru, with only the top four teams advancing to the playoffs.
From there, just two nations will earn coveted berths in the WBSC Women's Softball World Cup Finals 2027 in Redcliffe, Australia. Qualification carries even greater significance, as next year's Finals will award a direct spot in the women's softball tournament at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
After facing Japan, the Cebuana Lhuillier-backed Blu Girls will continue their group-stage campaign against world No. 3 Puerto Rico, world No. 12 Great Britain, and host nation Peru as they look to secure a playoff berth and keep their hopes alive for a place in the 2027 World Cup Finals—and ultimately, the road to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.(Marlon Bernardino)
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