Filipinas seek last four bid in AFC Women's Asian Cup against Japan

c/o AFC

The Philippines is seeking to challenge the moment as they face Japan in the quarterfinals of the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup in Sydney.

Kickoff is scheduled at Sunday, 1pm Manila time, at Stadium Australia, with the winner securing an automatic berth for next year's FIFA Women's World Cup.

The Filipinas were able to reach this stage after earning a 2-0 victory over Iran, as well as Japan's 4-0 win over Vietnam to conclude their respective pool play matches. As a result, the Philippines snagged the remaining spot for the two best third place teams via goal difference, and in the process, completes the postseason field.

In the pre-match press conference, gaffer Marc Torcaso expressed their team's excitement for their upcoming fixture, "It’s a privilege playing against some of the best teams here in Asia and around the world, in this tournament. Like Australia and South Korea, we look forward to this game."

He adds, "We look forward to this game, playing against the best players in the world, and probably one of the best teams in the world. The girls are excited."

Malea Cesar echoes same sentiment and sees this match as a proving ground for the Filipinas to show that they belong at this stage. She also shares, that their presence at this stage and platform serves as a motivation of all the girls back home to look up to, highlighting that "we're representing something so much bigger than just ourselves. We're representing the country... It's not just our dreams anymore, it's the dream of so many young girls out there."

Cesar adds that "communication and cohesion" will be key as they stick to the game plan against Japan.

With the Nadeshiko flashing their deadly form, scoring seventeen goals in topping Group C, Torcaso highlighted the need for the Filipinas to reflect the same kind of discipline that was the hallmark of their Group A matches against Australia and Korea Republic.

He notes, "The ultimate goal is to make the (Women's) World Cup and we're determined to get there, and we'll do what it takes to get there."

Australia has already sealed the first spot into the semifinals with their 2-1 victory over DPR Korea, with two more spots to be decided later today, as China tangles against Chinese-Taipei and Korea Republic against Uzbekistan.

All four losers of the quarterfinals will still have a shot at an automatic World Cup berth with two play-off matches slated within the coming week. Even with a play-off defeat, two teams will be given a chance to earn a bid through the inter-confederation play-offs.

Torcaso highlights the magnitude of the effort they put in for this tournament, acknowledging the team's responsibility "to make sure that every young girl in the Philippines or around the world wants to play for our national team for the long-term."

Although the match will take place in Australia, a watch party has been scheduled by the Philippine Football Federation in conjunction with SM. After their successful event at the MOA Sky for the Iran fixture during the AFC Women's Football Day last March 8, this time, it will be held at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.

Philippines advance in #WAC2026

c/o the AFC

With a little bit of luck, the Philippines earned one of the remaining two spots in the AFC Women's Asian Cup knockout rounds after the completion of pool play.

Results from the Group C games saw Japan defeat Vietnam, 4-0, and Chinese-Taipei dispatch India, 3-1.

The latter match allows Chinese-Taipei to claim second place, with the former dropping Vietnam as a result of goal difference, as their -4 ends up inferior to the Philippines' -2.

Chinese-Taipei and the Philippines join already qualified sides Korea Republic, Australia, China, DPR Korea, Uzbekistan, and Japan as the last eight teams in the field.

As one of the two third-place teams, the Filipinas, backed by both the Philippine Football Federation and the Philippine Sports Commission, will be facing Japan on March 15 at Stadium Australia in Sydney. 

In addition, these same teams will also comprise the field for the upcoming Olympic Qualifying Tournament for two automatic spots in the Olympic Football Tournament set to take place in Los Angeles 2028.

Filipinas await fate in remaining #WAC2026 pool play matches

Mallie Ramirez battles for possession with Itefeh Imani (c/o AFC)

The waiting stage officially begins today for the Philippines, as pool play for the 2026 edition of Asian Football Confederation Women's Asian Cup hits its penultimate day.

Slotted in Pool B, Uzbekistan and Bangladesh face off at the Perth Rectangular Stadium on Monday afternoon, with each side seeking a victory that would boost their hopes in making the knockout rounds as among the two best third-place teams. Both squads lost their matches against China and DPR Korea, setting the stage for this fixture.

Fresh from their 2-0 victory over Iran this past Sunday in what amounted to a virtual elimination game, the Philippines is now awaiting its fate with its -2 goal difference alongside its three points in three matches.

Head coach Marc Torcaso says, "We are praying and hoping that a few goals is enough for us to make it out of the group."

One more set of matches are set to be played on Tuesday, with Chinese-Taipei, Vietnam, and India still have postseason aspirations.

Japan, who has already qualified, is facing Vietnam, while Chinese-Taipei tangles with India.

adidas Drops Filipinas Kits in ANZ in time for AFC Women's Asian Cup

adidas x Filipinas

Just in time for the start of their campaign Down Under for the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, fans of the Filipinas will have the chance to purchase those much-sought-after kits from adidas.

The announced was revealed on Friday, just before the Philippines faces Australia in the tournament opener in Perth.

With the hosts being home to one of the largest Filipino communities overseas, and the region being one of the vibrant ones during the historic run of the Filipinas in the 2023 edition of the FIFA Women's World Cup, it was appropriate for adidas to find a means to have such communities own the chance to proudly wear the colors of the motherland in such a global stage.

Launched back in November domestically, the new Filipinas kits usher in a bold new era for the team following their World Cup debut. The royal blue home kit symbolizes strength and rhythm on the pitch, while the white away kit represents renewal and a new chapter for Philippine football. Both designs are accented with bold red panels, gold details, and a gold sun on the back—a tribute to the Filipinas’ achievements and the nation they represent.

Crafted with adidas AEROREADY technology, the jerseys are designed to keep players and fans dry and comfortable, whether competing in the tournament or cheering from the stands. With the kits now available in Australia and New Zealand, adidas strengthens its commitment to advancing women’s football and supporting the Filipinas’ growing global community of supporters.

Fans based in the region can now purchase these home and away kits through adidas.com, while those who want to buy the home kit in a physical store can do so at Rebel Australia stores. Further details are set to be forthcoming with regards to its availability in Stadium stores.

As announced previously, the Filipinas kits are available for purchase at the adidas stores and at the adidas Football branch atop MOA Sky, as well as in BOOTCAMP.

adidas reveals new Filipinas kits

Filipinas x adidas

Fresh from fellow German brand PUMA revealing its new kits for the Philippine Football Federation, adidas has done the same for the team it supports, the Filipinas.

Released in time for the SEA Games later this month and the upcoming AFC Asian Cup in Australia a few months later, these new kits are designed to reflect the strength, spirit, and pride of the nation’s top female footballers.

The home kit is in royal blue, symbolizes the team’s power and rhythm on the pitch, while the away kit is in white, and represents renewal and purity, marking a new chapter in the Filipinas’ journey.

Present in both kits are bold red side panels for competitive fire, gold crests and stripes to honor their achievements, and a gold sun on the back—a tribute to the light and inspiration the team brings to fans and future athletes.

Each kit is crafted with adidas' lightweight AEROREADY technology, the kits have been specifically engineered to keep players dry, focused, and confident in every match.

In line with the announcement, Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez shares, "This partnership with adidas is a game-changer for Philippine football. The Filipinas have shown the world what our athletes are capable of, and with adidas’ support, we’re building the infrastructure and culture to ensure that football continues to thrive—from grassroots to the global stage."

From their end, adidas Philippines General Manager Dave Sexton says, "Football has always been part of adidas’ DNA. With the Filipinas inspiring a new generation and the sport gaining momentum nationwide, we’re investing in spaces and experiences that bring the football community together. The new kits, and our first football-only store, are all part of our commitment to growing the game in the Philippines."

In addition, fans would be able to directly help the PFF with their grassroots development activities, with a portion of the proceeds going towards nurturing the next generation of Filipina footballers.

The official unveiling of these kits coincided with the opening of the first-ever adidas Football store in Southeast Asia.  Located adjacent to the MOA Sky football facility atop the SM Mall of Asia, it is stocked with the merchandise football fans are seeking, from the kits of your favorite adidas-supported clubs/teams, in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to cleats, and even lifestyle wear and accessories.

One can also have their kits customized at the store, and whilst waiting, there is a fun kicking area to test out those new kicks.

The new 2025-2026 Filipinas kits retail for PHP 3,800 and is now available at the adidas Football store. A wider release will drop on December 15 at adidas Brand Center Glorietta, Two Parkade, Trinoma, Uptown Mall, Venice Grand Canal Mall, and BOOTCAMP Fort and BOOTCAMP Online.

Two shutouts highlight Filipinas U17 campaign in Tajikistan

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Under-17 Women’s National Football Team is undefeated entering the final match day of the 2026 AFC Under-17 Women’s Asian Cup (WACQ) Group A in Dushanbe on Friday, defeating Tajikistan and Syria this week for six points, with no goals conceded.

The Young Filipinas blanked the hosts, 2-0, on Wednesday, with Louraine Evangelista scoring her second goal of the qualifiers while Davaoeña pride Jilliana Dagpin finished the game with her first national team goal.

In the 11th minute, the Tuloy protege Evangelista took a shot from outside of the penalty box on her running attack for the early advantage.

After numerous attacking tries by the Philippines against the compact and physical defense of Tajikistan, Dagpin, a young talent honed by the Davao South Regional Football Association and the Makati Football Club, had a splendid sprint toward the goal off Kaida Mizzo’s through pass on the counter to close the game scoring in the 90+5 minute.

Philippines trounces Syria, 5-0

On Monday, the Young Filipinas opened its bid for a second straight AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup appearance with a commanding 5-0 victory over Syria.

Led by brace scorer Ari Enderes, the Young Filipinas displayed sharp finishing and ball distribution on buildup plays for the clinical win.

Enderes opened the scoring in the fourth minute, finishing off a counterattack initiated by Evangelista and delivered through a precise cross from Chiara Mizzo. She completed her brace just before halftime, slotting in a goal off Yurika Valdevieso’s setup in the 44th minute.

“We felt if we scored early on in the game, then we could impose our style of play and how we wanted to play,” commented head coach Pradhyum Reddy on Enderes’ early offense.

“Two goals feels great but we did it as a team and I’m glad we did it together and it feels really good to win,” said Enderes, who was named Player of the Match.

The Young Filipinas shot consecutive long bombs to start the second half, with Kaida Mizzo and former futsal national team standout Evangelista goaling from outside the penalty box in the 50th and 52nd minutes.

Beach Hut FC’s Sofhia Muros closed the game for the Philippines, tapping in a goal in front in the 73rd minute off Chiara Mizzo’s second cross from the right wing.

“I think the good thing is once we got the third goal, we could make some rotations, some substitutions, get some fresh legs. I think it’s important when you’ve got another game in 48 hours’ time that we get to rotate the players,” Reddy concluded.

With the wins, the Philippines will enter the final game on Friday against fellow undefeated team Malaysia, with the lone Asian Cup ticket on the line.

The ASEAN squads have six points each but the Young Filipinas have a +4 goal difference edge over Malaysia.

Philippines maintains tenuous lead in AFC Asian Cup Qualifying

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine men’s national football team (PMNFT) successfully completed a tense sweep of ASEAN neighbor Timor-Leste, winning its home leg, 3-1, on match day 4 of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers (ACQ) at the New Clark City in Capas, Tarlac on Tuesday.

The team bounced back big in the second half, scoring three goals after trailing by one in the first half.

“It was a completely different game after we scored and I think that we deserved the three points at the end,” said Philippine head coach Carles Cuadrat.

“At the moment it was hard in the first half but I am really proud of the group. We have a big mentality here and I am really proud that we could bounce back from this first half,” added PMNFT’s top forward Bjorn Kristensen, who won his second straight Player of the Match.

After misses from Jefferson Tabinas and Andre Leipold that grazed the goal in the first half, Timor-Leste found its offensive groove and scored its third goal in the past three games, with England-based winger Joao Rangel lobbing the goal from the top left area of the penalty box in the first half injury time.

But the Philippines immediately regrouped and recovered after the halftime break as Tabinas scored off the set piece in the 46th minute, with Sandro Reyes delivering the assist from a right corner kick.

As Timor-Leste dodged several Philippine shots in the ensuing plays, the visitors had a chance at regaining the lead but Marques de Carvalho skied his clear shot in front of goal in the 69th minute.

PMNFT instantly punished that miss, with Kristensen, who hauled four goals in the October 9 game, scoring the go-ahead in the 70th minute off a clinical right-wing link-up with the returning Gerritt Holtmann and assist-passer Jesper Nyholm.

Substitute forward Jarvey Gayoso then scored the finisher in the 90+1 minute off a Randy Schneider set piece for his fourth international goal for the senior squad.

Timor-Leste head coach Ze Pedro commended the Philippines, saying, “I stated right away, I’ve already analyzed the Maldives, I’ve already analyzed Tajikistan, I’ve already analyzed the Philippines, the teams that are part of our group, and I identified before the two games that the Philippines were the strongest team in the group and I continue to say that they are.”

Indeed, PMNFT remains on top of the ACQ Group A with ten points and with a +2 goal difference advantage over Tajikistan.

After absorbing two losses in the October window, both Timor-Leste and Maldives are eliminated from Asian Cup contention.

PMNFT will next face Maldives in Male on November 18 for the penultimate game, before vying for the Asian Cup finals versus Tajikistan in March 2026.

PFF adds ex-El Salvador gaffer, La Liga standout to PMNFT staff

via the Philippine Football Federation

The Philippines, with hopes and aspirations of trying to return to the AFC Asian Cup, have provided current mentor Carles Cuadrat with additional assistance.

On Wednesday, the Philippines announced that they are tapping two coaches to join Cuadrat in his staff, with fellow Spaniards Albert Roca and Dimas Delgado bolstering their preparations for the upcoming October matches against Timor Leste.

In making the appointments, federation president John Gutierrez says, "With Albert Roca and Dimas Delgado joining Coach Carles Cuadrat on our national team’s coaching staff, we are reinforcing PFF’s commitment to world-class coaching and player development. Their experience, tactical expertise, and shared vision with Coach Carles Cuadrat will be invaluable as we aim to elevate the Philippines’ performance in the Asian Cup Qualifiers, with our aim to re-enter the main tournament."

Roca and Delgado are very much familiar with Cuadrat, having worked alongside each other previously across the world.

The former has been serving in a variety of roles worldwide since 1997, most notably for his stint as the manager of El Salvador a decade ago. He also has served as an assistant to Frank Rikjaard in his respective responsibilities with Saudi Arabia, as well as in his club managing responsibilities earlier this century at FC Barcelona and Galatasaray SK.

He first worked with Cuadrat at the Turkish side before working alongside him in both El Salvador and Saudi Arabia, before collaborating in India with Bengaluru FC.

With these two in tow, the Super League side became the first Indian side to reach a continental final when Bengaluru pulled off the feat at the 2016 AFC Cup. The next year, they claimed the Federation Cup and managed to reach the final of Indian Super League.

Roca departed in 2018 to return to Barcelona to be Ronald Koeman's fitness coach at the Catalan side, setting the stage for Cuadrat to take over and lead Bengaluru to the 2018 Indian Super League title.

The 62-year-old made a return to Bengaluru in 2023 to serve as a technical consultant.

Delgado, on the other hand, played professional football for over a couple of decades, most notably serving as the captain of Barcelona B during Pep Guardiola'S first year as a coach, scoring ten goals that campaign. The 42-year-old also has top flight experience, making twenty appearances for then-La Liga Primera Division side CD Numancia in 2008. He also played over two hundred fixtures in the Segunda Division, whether in Numancia, Huelva, and Cartagena.

A move to Australia followed, with Delgado serving as captain for the Western Sydney Wanderers from 2015-17, a side then managed by Tony Popovic, who is now serving as the gaffer for the Socceroos.

He then joined Bengaluru FC, where he was coached by both Roca and Cuadrat until 2021, and was its captain in 2018.

Delgado would play a final year back home in Spain at CF Montanesa in 2023, before starting his coaching career under Cuadrat at East Bengal FC, where they helped lead the side to the Indian Super Cup title last year.

The three Spaniards are now tasked to get the Philippines ready for its two matches against Timor Leste in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, traveling first to Darwin, Australia on October 9 before going back to New Clark City on October 14 for the final home leg of the PMNFT in the competition.

Gutierrez expressed confidence that the team will benefit from these additions. He notes, "PFF is focused on pushing Philippine football to a forward trajectory. The gains we have accumulated from 2024 will not be put to waste; we will ensure incremental progress of our football programs because we are very eager to build the Philippines as a strong football force in Southeast Asia and beyond."

PFF counting on government support for successful FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup hosting

FIFA Council Member Mariano V. Araneta, Philippine Sports Commision Chairman Patrick Gregorio, Philippine Football Federation President John Anthony Gutierrez (c/o the PFF)

In addressing those present during the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup draw last September 15 at the BGC Arts Center, Philippine Football Federation President John Gutierrez expressed his gratitude to the Philippine government for their support for the competition.

Gutierrez says, "Together with FIFA Council Member Mariano V. Araneta, we at the Philippine Football Federation are very grateful to the Philippine Government for making the hosting of the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 possible. We thank his Excellency President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for believing in the legacy that this hosting will bring to our country; Philippine Sports Commission, especially its Chair, Mr. Patrick Gregorio, for the pro-active support and championing this event as a major boost in sports tourism, and Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham Tolentino for his endorsement,.  Without this, the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup Philippines 2025 would probably be just a dream."

This was made possible through Administration Order No. 35, which Marcos Jr. authorizes the the establishment of an Inter-Agency Task Force that would ensure a successful hosting of FFWWC 2025, under the leadership of the PSC. Said task force will be responsible for coordinating the efforts of the various government agencies, local government units, and private stakeholders involved in the planning, organization, and implementation of the inaugural edition of the tournament.

Gutierrez very much appreciates the efforts of the PSC in leading the task force. He says, "I cannot emphasize enough the crucial part that PSC and Chair Patrick Gregorio play in our country’s hosting of the FFWWC. Their support has been key to bringing a world-class international tournament that is the FFWWC."

The recently-concluded draw was the latest major endeavour of the task force, which drew attendance from FIFA officials, representatives from the sixteen participating nations, members of the media, as well as the special guests for the occasion, Hali Long, Vanie Gandler, Croatia women's national futsal team head coach, Tihana Nemčić Bojić, and Brazilian futsal legend Falcão.

Whilst FIFA President Gianni Infantino was unable to make it to Manila, a recorded video from him was played, highlighting the federation's role as the football association that landed the bid to host the inaugural edition of the FFWWC, and reiterated the importance of the competition in developing futsal and football in the region, particularly the Philippines.

He says, "The first-ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is truly a game-changer. It finally gives the world’s top women’s futsal players the global stage that they deserve. But it will also shape the futsal players of tomorrow by inspiring so many young people. Led by PFF President, my friend, John Gutierrez, as well as former PFF President and current FIFA Council Member, my friend, as well, Mariano Araneta, in a true team effort that has led to this proud day (of the draw ceremony) for you all and for us all."

Infantino adds that he will be in the country for the competition, and says in his words, "celebrate this hugely significant step for your country and for us all."

Trophy for FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup revealed

The FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup trophy

As the draw for the inaugural edition of the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup creeps closer, FIFA on Friday revealed the trophy that sixteen nations will be going after for in the Philippines.

The global football entity crafted the design in-house, the trophy, according to them, "encapsulates the energy, precision and creativity of the women’s game." It is set to inspire players and fans alike as it set to take place starting late November.

Taking certain elements from its male counterpart, but it is to have its own personal identity. This piece "embodies the essence of futsal, a high-speed, skill-focused sport." It features two converging bars in gold and silver, symbolizing unity and competition, on a stylised futsal pitch. The curves echo the dynamic flow of the game, underscoring the technical finesse, ball control and teamwork that define elite futsal.

The upcoming ceremony will be the first chance the world will be able to actually see the trophy, which is scheduled to take place inside Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, with the program scheduled to commence at 5pm local time and will be streamed through FIFA.com, as well as through its app, FIFA+.

Hosted by sports presenter Mara Aquino, FIFA representatives, sporting legends, and dignitaries will be around for the proceedings, which will see the teams split into four groups.

All sixteen teams have been allocated into four pots based the latest FIFA Futsal Women's World Rankings released back in late August, save for the Philippines, who has been already slotted into Pot 1 as hosts.

Joining the Filipina5 in the Pot are perceived favorites Brazil, Spain, and Portugal.

Asian contenders Thailand and Japan lead Pot 2, alongside Argentina and Italy.

Meanwhile in Pot 3, Iran will be fielding their first women's team at this level of competition, with Colombia, Poland, and New Zealand.

Completing the field in Pot 4 are Morocco, Canada, Panama, and Tanzania, whose team here will the first time any of their senior sides have reached at this high in the world stage.

Pot 1 teams will be drawn first, with the Philippines automatically designated into Group A as A1. Subsequent teams will then be selected and allocated into the three remaining groups, before restarting the process in the next pot, until all teams have been selected.

FIFA prefers to have as much as possible a diverse group, so it will ensure that no team from the same confederation will be in each group.

The FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup will take place at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, starting on November 21 and ending on December 7, and fans can already pre-register their interest in securing tickets through FIFA.com/tickets.

Philippines slotted into Group A of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, set to open competition

The Filipinas with their fans during AFC Qualifying earlier this year

The Philippines' pathway towards the goal of making a return trip to the FIFA Women's World Cup was made clear on Tuesday with the results of the draw for the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup.

Held in Sydney, the ladies were drawn into Group A, alongside Australia, Korea Republic, and Iran, and having been slotted into A4, they were automatically designated as the team that will face the hosts to open the competition on March 1, at Perth.

After facing the 15th-ranked Matildas, they will head to the Gold Coast for their remaining Group Stage matches: with the Koreans on the 5th and concluding the first phase against the Persians on the 8th.

DPR Korea, China PR, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan comprise Group B, while Japan, Vietnam, India, and Chinese-Taipei complete the twelve-team field with Group C.

Only the four semifinalists will earn automatic spots at the FIFA Women's World Cup, which Brazil hosts in 2027. Two more teams will earn the right for an opportunity to play for a spot through the Playoff Tournament that takes place later in 2026.

Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez says when asked about his thoughts on the draw results, "Not the easiest group but not the hardest. Either way, we have to beat the best to be the best. Our girls will be ready come March."

Representing the team in the draw is Mark Torcaso, and he expressed his anticipation for the start of the tournament. The gaffer shares, "Really excited by it, and I know that our players will be up for the challenge. Every team here that has qualified obviously deserves to be here and they’re all going to be difficult opponents. It didn’t really matter who we were going to play, every game is going to be tough, and every game wehave to be extremely determined and focused to get an outcome."

He also adds, "We’re really excited by this opportunity, playing against the host in front of a big crowd in the first game, along with South Korea and Iran in the group." With the memory of managing to qualify in the FIFA Women's World Cup back in 2023 still fresh, the team remains optimistic of their hopes of earning their spot again in 2027.

Torcaso emphasizes such belief, as he says, "We are going to do our absolute best to bring World Cup opportunities back to our players and back to our country. We’ll be extremely determined and excited by making sure that we make this happen and we’ll do everything possible over the next few windows to make sure that we’re as prepared as possible."

With a schedule that includes two major sub-continental competitions in the remainder of the year, comprising the AFF MSIG Serenity Cup next week and the SEA Games this December, Torcaso notes that these tourneys will help the team prepare for this coming March. He shares, "This coming AFF tournament is a chance for us to see a lot of our young youth players play obviously with a closed FIFA window, we will give a lot of opportunity to our young players and see where they’re at in the level that they’re going to be hopefully to be ready for opportunities that come their way for the Asian Cup."

Pasig, Victorias named as FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup Philippines 2025 host cities

The two host cities of the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup Philippines 2025

It was announced on Friday that two cities will be the venues for the upcoming FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup Philippines 2025™.

The cities of Pasig in the National Capital Region, and Victorias in Negros Occidental will serve as the Host Cities for the inaugural edition of the competition, set to take place in late November, as revealed by FIFA and the tournament's Local Organizing Committee.

Philippine Football Federation president John Anthony Gutierrez shares, "We are extremely proud of this milestone and we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the local governments of Pasig City and Victorias City for their invaluable support in providing a truly unforgettable experience for the participating teams, the fans and the Filipino community."

On FIFA's end, Director of Tournaments Jaime Yarza says, "We are confident that, in collaboration with both Host Cities, we will deliver a tournament that meets the highest standards in terms of facilities and services and offers the players and fans a top-class experience."

Yarza also adds, "We also aim to leave a tangible legacy within the Philippines, improving the futsal infrastructure in the country – starting in these two cities – and encouraging new players to take up the game."

FIFA representatives made visits to both cities in recent months, checking on the infrastructure, accessibility, and accomodation capacity. With both cities having a track record for successfully hosting both sports and cultural events, making it ideal to host this groundbreaking endeavor.

In addition, the existence of active grassroots programmes in the area proved to be a key element in the selection process, which is in line with FIFA's long-term goals for the development of futsal and the promotion of women's football.

As noted by FIFA Chief Women's Football Officer Dame Sarai Bareman, "World Cups are among the most powerful forces we have to grow our sport, and the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is another exciting step in that journey. It’s a chance to inspire more girls and women around the world to play futsal."

Competition is set to commence on November 21, with the inaugural champion to be crowned on December 7. The sixteen-team field has already been formalized with the conclusion of the qualifying rounds, with these countries joining the Philippines in the affair: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, IR Iran, Italy, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Tanzania and Thailand.

Filipinas set for February camp

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Football Federation is to hold a training camp for the Senior Women's National Football Team next month, kicking off its busy year ahead.

Serving as the culmination for the camp is an intrasquad exhibition on February 25 at the Mall of Asia Football Field, which is already nearing completion. The event is slated to start at 6pm.

Head Coach Mark Torcaso says about the upcoming camp, "I’m really looking forward to having the Filipinas back in action at home, where the supporters in Manila can get a chance to experience the team up close, in one of the city’s new and exciting football venues. With the ASEAN Women’s Championship and the Asian Cup Qualifiers taking place midyear, and the SEA Games being held in December, there’s a lot to play for in 2025. This camp gives us a great opportunity to continue building the foundation for the way we want to play. We cannot wait to be back home to showcase our Filipinas."

PFF Senior Director for National Teams Freddy Gonzalez adds, "The Filipinas haven't spent much time at home since their historic World Cup run, so it's a really good opportunity for all the fans to connect with the team, and for our players to savor the experience of playing in front of their supporters. I can't think of a better way to introduce the new Mall of Asia Football Field to the Philippine public. Nine days of solid work at home, familiarizing with one another and with Coach Mark's game model will be a great way to start a big 2025 for the Filipinas."

The Filipinas aim to successfully defend their title in the ASEAN Women's Championship, while also secure a medal at the upcoming SEA Games in Thailand. They are also set to start their quest to return to the AFC Asian Cup finals after their success in the previous edition allowed them to make their FIFA Women's World Cup debut.

Philippines reveals squad for AFC Women's Futsal Asian Cup qualifying

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Amidst the backdrop of recent developments involving the women's futsal team, the Philippine Football Federation has called up fourteen players for the upcoming AFC Women's Futsal Asian Cup 2025 Qualifiers.

Set to take place from January 11-19 at the Yunusobod Sports Complex in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the Philippines will tangle with Kuwait, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Australia in Group C of the tournament. Finishing in the top two of the group secures a spot in the finals proper, which is to take place this May in China.

Three spots to the inaugural edition of the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup are at stake, with the Philippines already earmarked a spot as the host of the competition set to be held in November.

To assemble the team, the PFF held a camp last December 26-30 in Manila, supplemented by training earlier this week.

Leading the way are a few holdovers from the team that participated in the ASEAN Women's Futsal Championship late last year: Shai del Campo, Cathrine Graversen, Samantha Hughes, Vrendelle Nuera, and Kayla Santiago.

This is supplemented by recent Filipinas call-ups Shelah Cadag, Sara Castaneda, Bella Flanigan, Katrina Guillou, and Dionesa Tolentin.

Completing the team are Judy Connolly, Rocelle Mendaño, Nicole Ramores, and Regine Rebosura.

Acting as the head coach is Rafa Merino Rodriguez. The Barcelona-born coach holds a UEFA Pro License (Level 3) and an FA Level 1 in Football (England). He also possesses expertise in sports coaching, earned at Florida Universitaria in Valencia, Spain. Merino has managed several first-division futsal clubs, including Pescados Rubén Burela FS and Barcelona's Esportiu Rubí FS.

In being named as the gaffer, the Spaniard shares, "I am honored to be appointed as the new head coach of the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team. I look forward to working with these players to build a competitive, unified squad ready to excel in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers. We are focused on achieving success in the upcoming tournament."

With a spot already assured in the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup, the federation has been doing its part to reflect readiness in the competition. The participation of the team formerly known as the Pinay 5 in Asian Cup qualifying is a key step to gauge their play after their ASEAN campaign.

PFF President John Gutierrez says, "The Asian Cup Qualifiers will be a pivotal moment for our women’s futsal national team, as their performance here will set the tone for our campaign in the FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup."

He adds, "In terms of our preparation, I couldn’t be happier with this team we built, headed by our new head coach, Rafa Merino. I think we’ve assembled the best players we can, dedicated players to play for the country and nothing else. As far as preparation goes, I am very optimistic."

Gutierrez concludes, "More than just the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, we would also like to make our mark in the entire Asian Region. That is why we are treating this AFC Women’s Futsal qualifier very seriously by fielding the strongest team possible."

The federation is dedicated to ensuring the successful participation of its Women’s National Futsal Team at the inaugural event, an important milestone that will elevate Philippine futsal on the global stage and inspire thousands of aspiring futsal players in the country.

In addition, they also shared that FIFA has accepted PhilSports Arena and the Victorias City Coliseum in Negros Occidental as venues for the Futsal World Cup.

The Philippines will face Kuwait in their opening match on January 11, 2025, at 9:00 p.m. (PHT), with the remaining matches as follows.

• January 13, 2025 – Philippines vs. Uzbekistan | Monday, 6:00 PM

• January 15, 2025 – Philippines vs. Turkmenistan | Wednesday, 6:00 PM

• January 19, 2025 – Philippines vs. Australia | Sunday, 6:00 PM

Thailand outlasts the Philippines to advance into AMEC final

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippines were inches away from dethroning Thailand in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup 2024, and just minutes away from forcing penalties. But a dramatic Suphanat Mueanta goal deep in extra time put an end to the Filipinos’ Cinderella run in the competition.

“First, I’d like to congratulate Thailand on making the final. Second, I’m very proud of my players. We will come back stronger, I can promise you that. We came here to Thailand and we played against them face-to-face until the last minute,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas after the grueling 120-minute affair at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.

Entering the match with a 2-1 advantage from the first leg, the Philippines started the contest full of confidence, able to dictate the game in front of the vibrant 31,000 in attendance. Jarvey Gayoso came close to a deserved opener, but his effort was denied by a goal-line clearance.

The seven-time champions eventually wrestled control as the half wore on, and found a breakthrough through captain Peeradol Chamratsamee in the 38th minute, who fired in the opener from a tight angle. That lead was doubled eight minutes after the break, with Patrik Gustavsson tucking away a well placed through ball.

Behind 3-2 on aggregate at that stage, the Philippines needed to find a goal to stay in the tie. They found that lifeline through Bjorn Kristensen, who fired in a beautiful low curling strike from outside of the box to restore parity in the tie. The Filipinos even went on to almost snatch another goal that would’ve sent the team through to the final.

From a dangerous cross in to the box, Amani Aguinaldo’s header forced a good stop from the keeper. The resulting rebound was fired unto the underside of the crossbar, with a third attempt struck goal wards, but deflected out for a corner kick. That unconverted scramble meant the match went into extra-time where Muenta’s heroics at the death ensured the Thais returned to the final.

“I think we played good in the first 20 minutes, and in the last 20 minutes. In the first half of extra time it was an equal game, but in the last 10 minutes we suffered. We couldn’t put pressure on the ball anymore and we allowed too many crosses. Next time we will learn from that lesson and we will come back stronger,” said Capellas, who finished the tournament with a record of two wins, three draws, and one loss. “We just arrived at this level. For a lot of years we couldn’t play these type of games — to fight until the last second against Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam. It’s the first time we are here after a lot of years. We have to learn from this experience. Thailand has been there a lot of years. For this generation of players, this is the first time. All I can promise is that we’ll learn from this and we’ll become stronger.”

Reflecting on a grueling campaign where the team played six games in 18 days, the Spanish tactician couldn’t help but feel a change is needed for future editions of the tournament.

“The competition I think has to be organized in a different way. Our players were completely destroyed physically. We have to take care of the players. They need more rest time in between games. This is not respect for the game, this is not respect to the players,” he said.

He also took time to thank all the support the team garnered over the last few weeks, including the over 10,000 that witnessed the Philippines beat Thailand at the Rizal Memorial Stadium just a few days ago.

“I hope all the Filipinos are proud and that they enjoyed [the efforts of] our squad. They fought a lot. And I hope we get the support from the federation, the government, and from people who love football, to help us grow football in the Philippines, so we’ll have more games like this,” he said. “Thank you very much to all the Filipinos, not only in the Philippines, but around the world. Now we have to move to the next level. We have to have a more powerful league. We have to develop the youth football. We need to invest, and we will come back stronger. We will work very hard to make it happen.”

“Now we know we can do it. We have a very bright future for the National Team of the Philippines for the next few years,” he concluded. The Philippine Men’s National Team will next see action in March, when the campaign to qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup begins.

Philippines at cusp of historic moment in AMEC

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippines is one match away from making a first ever appearance in the final of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup. Having made history by beating Thailand in Manila in the first leg, the Filipinos take a slim 2-1 advantage heading into Monday’s 9:00PM (PST) match at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok. The winner on aggregate after both legs will go through to face either Vietnam or Singapore in the final.

“I think it’ll be a very equal 200 minutes. I know that it’s about two games. We have to perform good again tomorrow if we want to go to the final. We know that we can make it difficult for Thailand. We have watched the [previous] game, we have made some adjustments to try to come here and make a good performance for our fans, our federation, and for our players, to show that we are making steps forward. We will try to reach the final for sure,” said head coach Albert Capellas.

Michael Kempter, who stepped out with the captain’s armband in the first leg, is under no illusions about the gravity of the task ahead and is expecting that the team will need to dig deep once again to overcome the seven-time champions.

“We know that Thailand is a very good team. We are very prepared for the game. We’re going to fight until the end like in Manila,” said Kempter. “We’re here to reach the finals. We believe in ourselves. We’re not done yet, the job’s not done. We’re here to make history for our country.”

Thailand are no strangers to overturning first-leg deficits, having successfully overcome a few en route to Southeast Asian supremacy. With their home fans behind them, Thai player Chalermsak Akkee suggested that the Filipinos’ tears of joy in Manila would turn into tears of agony on Monday night.

“There is no sport in the world that moves people more than football — maybe music, but not in sport. That’s why the fans now are starting to feel the hope. Tomorrow we will perform, and I’m sure our fans will not cry. They will feel very proud no matter if we win, if we draw, or we lose. I’m sure they will feel very proud,” said Albert Capellas in response.

A draw or a win for the Philippines will guarantee passage into the final, which will be played over two legs as well. Tonight's match will be aired LIVE on Matchday.ph.

Philippines claims home leg of AMEC semifinal

c/o Philippine Football Federation

In front of a boisterous Rizal Memorial Stadium crowd, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team made history on Friday night, defeating Thailand, 2-1, to seal the team’s first ever semifinal win in the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup, and a first victory in 52 years over the regional powerhouse. The win was sealed in dramatic fashion, with a last minute goal that ensured the Filipinos take the advantage heading into the second leg in Bangkok.

“I’m very happy for all the supporters, all the fans. I’m very happy for the players because they never give up. We played a very good 35-40 minutes against a very good team,” said Albert Capellas after the match. “In the second half we suffered more, conceded attempts that we shouldn’t have. But we handled it together. We never lost the hope because this team — they’re fighters, they believe — they fight so much for this country. I’m so proud for them. In the end I think we got what we deserved. I’m very happy.”

The Philippines got off to strong start, putting Thailand on the back-foot by keeping possession well and moving the ball quickly. 20 minutes into the contest, Sandro Reyes fired in a left-footed wonder strike to give the Philippines a deserved lead. The visitors responded right before the break though, with Suphanan Bureerat finishing off a counter attack to give Thailand a lifeline.

With a foot back into the game, the Thais emerged from the second half inspired, mounting numerous attacks that led to clear-cut opportunities. But after enduring a difficult half of pressure, the Filipinos dramatically turned the match around in the final minute. From a Zico Bailey free kick, Paul Tabinas cushioned the ball to Kike Linares for the game-winning goal.

“We knew how to suffer, we suffered the entire group stage,” said Man of the Match Sandro Reyes. “I think the group stage was a perfect practice for today because we suffered a lot, but we found a way to go through all those hurdles. We went through hell and we came out. Today was the same. The end of the first half, until the end of the game I think Thailand had plenty of chances. They were putting pressure on us. We couldn’t keep the ball. We were very tired. But we got out of hell and scored the last minute goal. The fans were amazing. They were with us until the end.”

“Since I started playing football at age four, Thailand has always been the team to beat. They’ve always been the strongest in Southeast Asia, so to beat them shows how far we’ve come,” he continued. “But the job isn’t even halfway done. We’ve got a very difficult job in the second leg coming up and we want to play a final here, so we’ll give everything to get that final here.”

Ecstatic about the historic win, Coach Albert Capellas believes there’s still plenty more to come from the Philippine Men’s National Football Team.

"I’m very happy for everyone who’s making a lot of effort inside of the federation — Freddy [Gonzalez], Mikkel [Paris], and all of the staff. You cannot imagine how much they work for this team. They need all the support from everybody because this is just the beginning, and we want to get better and better.”

The Philippines will look to seal the country’s first ever appearance in the competition’s final, when they will play Thailand in Bangkok on Monday, December 30, at 9:00PM.

Philippines ready for home leg of AMEC Semifinal

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Back in the semi-finals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup for the first time in six years, the Philippine Men’s National Football Team is eager to get off to a strong start in their two-legged tie versus regional powerhouse Thailand. The first match will be held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on Friday night, December 27, 9PM, with the second leg to be played in Bangkok on the 30th.

Up against seven-time champions of ASEAN’s biggest stage, and a team ranked 53 places higher in the FIFA rankings, Philippine Head Coach Albert Capellas sees no reason to change the approach that got his team to the knockout rounds.

“It’s nice to be here again, it means we’ve qualified for the semi-finals. It’s very nice to see all of you again, and to have the chance to play two more good games,” said Capellas. “We have this rule that the most important game is the next game, and we won’t change that. We always prepare the games believing we can win. We know that Thailand is a very strong opponent, but we’ll attack with the s

ame mentality. This is the way that we’ve prepared for this game — exactly the same as all the other games.”

Bjorn Kristensen’s goal in front of 17,000 Indonesians was what sealed passage for the Filipinos into the semi-finals. The young striker is no stranger to Thailand, having opened his goal scoring account for the Philippines against Friday’s opponent a couple months ago.

“It will be a good game against a strong opponent. It’s what we live for, to play against good teams. Hopefully we can get the win in the first leg, and the hopefully the second leg also,” said Kristensen, scorer of two goals so far in this tournament.

The Filipinos will be without the services of Amani Aguinaldo due to suspension, as well as Patrick Reichelt, who recently announced his retirement from international football. The team will welcome back Santi Rublico, though, who bolsters the team’s options in attack.

“In this tournament we’re experts in finding the balance. It’s one of the keys of why we’re here today. We had to find the balance of the minutes we deliver to every player. Every player who got the chance delivered their best,” said Capellas, before adding, “Alone we cannot achieve anything, together we can achieve a lot of things. One of the strong parts of this group, is the belief that they have — they do everything together — and the effort that they make in every game. That means with or without Amani [and Patrick], that will not change.”

“With Santi, he could only join us if we made it to the semi-final stage and I’m very happy that the club allowed him to join us. He knows all the players, knows the system, and knows me very well. He has the same chances as everyone else to get minutes.”

Tickets to the Filipinos’ clash with Thailand are available on Ticketmax.ph. The game will be aired LIVE matchday.ph and on PTV Sports.

Philippines secures AMEC semifinal spot

c/o Philippine Football Federation

Winless yet undefeated coming in to the Manahan Stadium, the Philippine men’s national football team (PMNFT) proved to Southeast Asia its winning mettle, scoring an all-important 1-0 victory over Indonesia and booking a semis ticket to close the 2024 ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup Group B competitions on Saturday in Surakarta.

The win marks the return of the Philippines to the ASEAN home-and-away semis, which it last achieved in 2018. The team will next face defending champion Thailand on December 27 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium (RMS).

This also marks the Philippines’ first win against Indonesia since 2014 and the first ever on Indonesian soil.

“I can’t begin to describe how I feel right now. It’s like, it’s just nice to be back. Nice to be back where we belong in the semifinals and the job’s not done yet,” said Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Director for National Teams Freddy Gonzalez.

“We played four games in nine days, so everyone was gassed, but these guys really dug deep and, you know, pulled off an amazing victory today that brought us back to the semifinals,” Gonzalez, a national team striker in the ’90s, added.

The Philippines’ patience in building up for the goal and weathering Indonesia’s intense attacks on their side paid off when Paul Tabinas earned a penalty, forcing a handball on Dony Tri Pamungkas to earn Bjorn Kristensen the winning goal in the 63rd minute.

The glorious goal came after a flurry of shots on goal by Indonesia starting in the latter part of the first half, backstopped by speedster Marcelino Ferdinan, who had three shots on goal saved by replacement keeper Quincy Kammeraad and one that hit the woodwork.

The Indonesian momentum came to a halt when skipper Muhammad Ferrari was booked for a red card for elbowing fellow skipper Amani Aguinaldo in the 43rd minute, limiting Indonesia to ten men throughout the match.

Kristensen had the final say of the first half with a header in front of goal that was saved by Cahya Supriadi.

Early in the second half, Hokky Brilliant and Achmad Syarif stepped up on offense but their shots were saved by Kammeraad.

After Kristensen’s goal, it was the Philippines’ turn to step on the gas, with substitute Uriel Dalapo released for a running strike that was saved by Supriadi in the 75th minute, while a similar counter by Jarvey Gayoso in the 85th minute was blocked by Muhammad Hannan.

The Philippines held the fort on defense despite 14 minutes of added time as Kammeraad had the last laugh, saving the outside shot on target by late sub Ronaldo Joybera, Jr.

“This is very emotional for us. There are no words,” said Aguinaldo who, alongside starting keeper Patrick Deyto, was part of the 2018 squad. “I am very happy to be part of this team, of this squad that has faced much difficulty from the past.”

“I think the coach told us today the last few games luck hasn’t been on our side and I think us as a team we created our luck today and this is something the country has been needing for a long time and this is just for the team and for the country and everybody,” said Man of the Match Kammeraad, who replaced an injured Patrick Deyto in the 4th minute.

The Philippines has not won against Thailand in head-to-head history and has only drawn twice.

In last October’s King’s Cup, PMNFT figured in a rain-soaked 1-3 loss against the world number 97, with Kristensen scoring his first international goal.

“I hope… we will have our fans behind at home. We will need them. We need full stadium and we will try to do our best to beat Thailand,” encouraged PMNFT head coach Albert Capellas, who is on his debut ASEAN Championship.

Philippine to give its all in final AMEC group stage matchup

c/o Philippine Football Federation

The Philippine Men’s National Football Team’s hopes of progress into the semi-finals of the ASEAN Mitsubishi Electric Cup™ 2024 hangs in the balance on Saturday night, when they face Indonesia, 9PM PST, at the Manahan Stadium. After three straight draws, nothing less than victory in Surakarta will be enough to give the Filipinos passage into the next round.

“We have played four games in a row with only two days in between [each match]. I think this is a disadvantage, but of course we will not use this as an excuse. Tomorrow we will perform. I know my players, I know they will deliver 100%,” said Head Coach Albert Capellas. “We will come here tomorrow to try to win the game. We need to win the game if we want to have a chance to qualify. I think we’re facing a very good team who are playing at home, in front of a big and passionate audience. It’s a team that we have to play very well against if we want to have a chance to beat them.”

Echoing Capellas’ thoughts, Sandro Reyes, who has been key figure in the Philippines’ midfield, believes that despite the grueling schedule, his teammates will be ready to perform at the level required.

“It’s difficult to understand how a tournament can be played with four games in 12 days, but like coach said we’re not using this as an excuse All of the players are fit, ready, no injuries. Everyone is excited and energized to give more than 100% tomorrow,” said Reyes.

In order to qualify for the semi-finals, the Philippines not only need to win on Saturday night, but Group B leaders Vietnam must not lose in their match versus Myanmar, which will be held simultaneously.

The Filipinos clash with Indonesia will be aired LIVE on One Sports, One Sports+, and on Matchday.ph. It will also be available on a delayed basis on the Philippine Men’s National Football Team Facebook Page, and on Pilipinas Live.