The Philippine men’s floorball team squeaked past Southeast Asian rival Thailand, 6-5, to rule the 2024 Asia-Oceania Qualifications for the World Championships on Saturday, May 25, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

Lucas Werelius delivered the game-winning goal for the Nationals in the 53^rd minute off an assist from Alm Mendoza that secured them the top honors in this eight-nation tournament.

The victory was somehow a revenge of sorts for the Filipinos, who settled for the silver medal against the same rival in last year’s SEA Games in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

It also served as a morale boost for the hosts, who also earned a berth to the World Championships after stunning powerhouse Australia, 5-3, in the semifinals on Friday, May 24.

Thailand’s runner-up finish also secured them a ticket to the Worlds, while Australia booked the last bus after a 4-3 triumph over Singapore in the battle for third place.

The Nationals were actually trailing 3-4 after Lukas Phraiwan struck a goal for Thailand in the 46^th minute.

Kim Varga Franz and Melvin Mendoza answered back to give the Filipinos the crucial 5-4 lead but the Thais refused to give up, with Phraiwan  scoring in the 51^st minute.

It turned out to be Thailand’s last stand as Werelius saved the day for the Filipinos with the crucial and winning goal.

The Nationals, along with Thailand and Australia, will join 14 other qualifiers to the Worlds -- 11 from Europe including host Sweden and one from the Americas.