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Tag: Philippine Women’s National Football Team

  • Ferdinand Marcos hails Alex Eala, Filipinas as inspirations for Filipinos in SONA

    Ferdinand Marcos hails Alex Eala, Filipinas as inspirations for Filipinos in SONA

    Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. underscored the growing importance of sports in nation-building during his fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), highlighting the achievements of tennis star Alex Eala and the Philippine women’s national football team while reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening sports development across the country.

     

    Speaking before a joint session of Congress at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City on Monday, July 27, Marcos pointed to the accomplishments of Filipino athletes on the international stage as proof that the country can compete with the world’s best when provided with the necessary support and opportunities.

     

    Among those singled out by the President was tennis sensation Alex Eala, whose rapid rise has made her one of the country’s most recognizable sporting figures and an inspiration to aspiring Filipino athletes.

     

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    Marcos expressed hope that Eala’s success would encourage more young Filipinos to participate not only in tennis but in sports in general, emphasizing the role athletics plays in promoting both excellence and healthy lifestyles.

     

    “Sa nag-uumapaw nating suporta kay Alex Eala, sana ay marami ang ma-engganyo para matuto at maglaro hindi lamang ng tennis, kundi ng iba pang sport. Mahalaga rin sa atin ang sports. Itinaas natin nang triple ang suporta natin dito. Hindi lamang dahil sa aliw na hatid nito, kundi para sa kalusugan,” Marcos said during his address.

     

    The President also revealed that government support for sports has tripled under his administration, reiterating that investment in athletics goes beyond producing champions and also contributes to improving the overall health and well-being of Filipinos.

     

    Eala has become one of Philippine sports’ brightest stars following a series of breakthrough performances on the international stage. Widely regarded as Southeast Asia’s top young tennis player, the 21-year-old continues to raise the country’s profile in world tennis through her historic achievements.

    Her most recent milestone came at Wimbledon 2026, where she became the first Filipino in the Open Era to reach both the third and fourth rounds of the prestigious Grand Slam tournament. The achievement further cemented her status as one of the country’s premier athletes and strengthened hopes that she can continue making history on the WTA Tour.

     

    Marcos also reserved special praise for the Philippine women’s national football team, popularly known as the Filipinas, after the squad secured qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

     

    The achievement marks the second consecutive edition of the tournament in which the Philippines has earned a place, following the country’s historic debut at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup—a landmark moment that significantly elevated the profile of women’s football in the nation.

     

    “Sa halimbawa ng Filipinas women’s football team, sana rin ay mas sumikat pa ang football sa ating bansa at marami ang maglaro. Balang-araw, baka makasali na ang Pilipinas sa World Cup,” Marcos added.

     

    The President expressed hope that the Filipinas’ continued success would inspire more young Filipinos to embrace football, with the long-term dream of seeing the country become a regular participant in football’s biggest international competitions.

     

    Following the President’s remarks, the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) issued a statement thanking Marcos for recognizing the achievements of Philippine football on one of the country’s biggest political stages.

     

    “Lubos na nagpapasalamat ang Philippine Football Federation sa paghirang ni Pangulong Bongbong Marcos sa Philippine football sa kanyang State of the Nation Address. Sama-sama nating iangat ang Pilipinas sa global stage ng football! Tayo naman, Pilipinas,” the federation said.

     

    The Filipinas are now preparing for another major international challenge as they turn their attention to the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. Drawn into a difficult Group G, the Philippines will face regional powerhouse China, as well as Uzbekistan and Hong Kong, as they seek another memorable campaign on the continental stage.

     

    Marcos’ recognition of both Eala and the Filipinas reflects the growing prominence of Philippine sports in recent years. From tennis courts to football pitches, Filipino athletes continue to make significant strides internationally, and their achievements have increasingly become a source of national pride. With government support for sports receiving greater emphasis, the hope is that more young Filipinos will be inspired to pursue athletic excellence and carry the country’s flag onto the global stage.

     

     

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  • Mark Torcaso sets sights on Philippines reaching the knockouts of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup

    Mark Torcaso sets sights on Philippines reaching the knockouts of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup

    History is no longer a once-in-a-generation achievement for the Philippine women’s national football team—it is becoming the expectation.

     

    The Filipinas continued their ascent on the international stage with a composed 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers, sealing their place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil.


    The qualification marks another milestone for Philippine football and further cements the country’s emergence as one of Asia’s fastest-rising forces in women’s football. After making their historic World Cup debut in 2023, the Filipinas have proven that their breakthrough was no fluke, but the product of sustained investment in player development, consistent performances, and a long-term vision.

     

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    For head coach Mark Torcaso, however, simply qualifying is no longer enough.


    “Our objective is very clear: we are going to the World Cup to compete and not just participate. We will do what we can to get out of the group. That means our preparation has to be deliberate and aligned with that ambition,” Torcaso said during a media interaction.


    The Filipinas’ strong showing in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia also propelled them to No. 39 in the latest FIFA Women’s World Rankings, just one spot shy of their all-time best ranking of No. 38.

    “We are pretty proud of the FIFA ranking. Over the last couple of months, we have been working towards getting back in the top 40. That shows the commitment that everyone has put into this national team, not only in recent times, but over the last four to ten years. So we are really excited by constantly moving up the rankings, and we want to keep pushing more and more. No. 39 is not where we want to stop. We want to keep going,” he added.


    As preparations for Brazil intensify, Torcaso recently led the squad through an intensive training camp in San Diego, where the full 30-player pool trained together and played friendly matches against NWSL side San Diego Wave and Albion San Diego. The Australian tactician also returned to Manila to watch the opening weekend of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Women’s League, allowing him to reconnect with home-based players while continuing to evaluate potential additions to the national team.


    “From June onwards, we will maximize every FIFA window, expose the team to different styles across continents, and continuously raise our standards in both training and competition. Proper preparation is not just about playing more games; it’s about having the players in the best possible condition, physically and mentally, and ensuring they are performing consistently at their clubs. We are building a program where every detail matters,” Torcaso said.


    The road to Brazil will be demanding.


    Following the Asian Cup, the Filipinas are scheduled for a training and competition tour in South America this October before taking on additional opponents from Asia and Oceania during upcoming FIFA international windows.

     

    Their preparations will continue in Spain in February 2027 with an expected appearance at the Pinatar Cup before shifting focus to the Olympic qualifying cycle in April 2027. The final phase of the buildup will include a four-to-six-week training camp in Brazil ahead of the World Cup.


    Armed with a stronger foundation, greater international experience, and a clearly defined development pathway, the Filipinas are no longer satisfied with making history. Their goal now is to establish themselves among the world’s elite—and make a deep run when they return to football’s biggest stage in 2027.


    This version adopts a cleaner sports feature style, eliminates repetition, improves transitions, and ends with a stronger, publication-worthy closing that reinforces the team’s ambitions.

     

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  • Mark Torcaso maps out Filipinas’ road to FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 with four-continent campaign

    History is no longer a once-in-a-generation achievement for the Philippine women’s national football team—it is quickly becoming the new standard.

     

    The Filipinas continued their remarkable rise on the international stage after delivering a composed and commanding performance against Uzbekistan, securing a 2-0 victory in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup play-in and booking their place in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

     

    The qualification marks another historic milestone for Philippine football, reinforcing the country’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing forces in Asian women’s football. After making their maiden World Cup appearance in 2023, the Filipinas have now shown that their breakthrough was not a one-off accomplishment but the result of a program built around consistency, player development, and long-term vision.

     

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    Head coach Mark Torcaso is already looking ahead to the next global challenge, with preparations for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup well underway. The Australian mentor has outlined a four-continent preparation campaign designed to strengthen the squad, provide opportunities for players across different leagues, and help the Filipinas improve on their historic debut campaign.

     

    Torcaso recently brought the team to San Diego for an intensive training camp, where the Filipinas worked with the full 30-player pool and faced local clubs San Diego Wave and Albion San Diego as part of their preparations. The coach also made a trip to Manila to watch the opening weekend of the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Women’s League, giving him an opportunity to reconnect with home-based players and continue evaluating potential national team options.

     

    With competition for places expected to intensify ahead of the World Cup, Torcaso stressed the importance of creating opportunities for every eligible player, regardless of where they currently compete.

     

    “Every camp and every opportunity we have got is strategically organized in a way so we are going to be ready for this World Cup. I want to make sure that we give everyone an opportunity to be part of this World Cup, and I don’t want to miss out on anyone. Every player, regardless if you’re in the Philippines or playing in Myanmar or playing in Europe somewhere, I want to give everyone a chance,” Torcaso said in a media interaction.

     

    The Filipinas’ next major test will come at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, scheduled for September. However, with the tournament taking place outside the FIFA international window, Torcaso acknowledged that securing the availability of overseas-based players could prove challenging.

    Despite that obstacle, the national team sees the Asian Games as an important opportunity to measure progress and assess potential World Cup contributors against elite competition.

     

    “The main objective in this Asian Games is obviously to go as far as we can, but it’s also for us as coaches and the country to test some players at a tough level to see if they will be ready for the World Cup,” he continued.

     

    Torcaso also expressed his appreciation for the support provided by the Philippine Football Federation, particularly in helping organize the team’s preferred training camps, opponents, and preparation environments ahead of the biggest challenges awaiting the Filipinas.

     

    “The Federation-through president Gutierrez and general secretary Gelix Mercader- have been very accommodating and supportive in our preparations,” Torcaso stated.

     

    Beyond training and competition, Torcaso emphasized the importance of fan support as the Filipinas continue their journey toward the World Cup. He pointed to the overwhelming backing the team received during their gold medal-winning campaign at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games in Chonburi, Thailand, as an example of how supporters can inspire the squad.

     

    “Any country that we go to, I just really express that if we can have as much support and fans to come out and be part of our journey – everyone here, every time we have a camp here in the Philippines, come and watch the girls. Trust me, they play so much better when they feel that love and support from everyone,” he concluded.

     

    The road to Brazil will be demanding, with the Filipinas set for a packed schedule following the Asian Cup campaign. The team is scheduled to travel to South America in October before facing additional Asia-Oceania opposition as part of its preparations.

     

    The buildup will continue in Spain in February 2027, where the Filipinas are expected to compete in the Pinatar Cup, followed by the 2028 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in April 2027.

    The final phase of preparations will see the team hold a four-to-six-week training camp in Brazil before the start of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

     

    With a stronger foundation, increased international experience, and a clear development pathway, the Filipinas are determined to prove that their rise among the world’s best is only the beginning.

     

     

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  • Filipinas book World Cup berth with clinical win over Uzbekistan

    Filipinas book World Cup berth with clinical win over Uzbekistan

    History is no longer a one-time moment for the Philippines women’s national football team—it’s becoming a standard.

     

    With everything on the line, the Filipinas delivered a composed and decisive performance, defeating the Uzbekistan women’s national football team, 2-0, in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup play-in to officially punch their ticket to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

     

    The Philippines set the tone early, dictating play and creating opportunities in the opening half. They fired nine shots before the break but were unable to find the finishing touch, as Uzbekistan held firm defensively and kept the match scoreless.

     

    At the other end, the Filipinas were just as disciplined. Their backline limited Uzbekistan to only three attempts in the first half, showcasing a balanced performance built on both attacking intent and defensive organization.

     

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    The breakthrough finally came moments after the restart. Angie Beard broke the deadlock in the 47th minute, converting off a well-placed assist from Jael Guy to give the Philippines a deserved lead.

     

    With momentum now firmly on their side, the Filipinas tightened their grip on the match, controlling possession and keeping Uzbekistan at bay. The result was put beyond doubt when Jackie Sawicki struck to double the advantage, sealing both the win and the ticket to football’s biggest stage.

     

    What followed was not just celebration—but confirmation. The victory secured the Philippines’ second consecutive appearance in the Women’s World Cup, proving that their breakthrough debut in 2023 was no fluke but the foundation of a rising program.

     

    With Brazil 2027 now firmly in sight, the Filipinas continue to rewrite their narrative—not as newcomers, but as a team that expects to be on football’s biggest stage.

     

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  • Filipinas set sights on Uzbekistan clash for World Cup berth after Japan loss

    Filipinas set sights on Uzbekistan clash for World Cup berth after Japan loss

    The result may have been lopsided, but for the Philippines women’s national football team, the bigger picture remains intact.

     

    A 7-0 defeat to Japan women’s national football team in the quarterfinals of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 did little to shake the Filipinas’ long-term objective — securing a return trip to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027. Instead, it highlighted a calculated decision by head coach Mark Torcaso to prioritize survival over immediate results.

     

    Facing one of the strongest teams in the world, Torcaso rotated heavily, resting key starters including goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel and handing opportunities to less-tested players. It was a move rooted not in surrender, but in strategy — preserving energy for a more decisive battle ahead. 

     

    “Obviously, we don’t want to lose any game but we also have to understand that we are playing against probably one of the best teams in the world,” Torcaso said.

     

    The match itself offered glimpses of promise beneath the scoreline. The Filipinas held firm for long stretches in the first half and nearly entered the break without conceding. More importantly, new faces stepped up under pressure.

     

    “We gave two first starts to two players who were outstanding for the game. Nina Meollo and Jourdyn Curran played their first game for the national team and started. I thought they were outstanding and that is a really pleasing thing for me as a coach. We also had three young players playing in that first half that were also outstanding.”

     

    For Torcaso, development and depth were just as valuable as the result. The experience gained against elite opposition could prove crucial as the team approaches its most important fixture of the tournament.

     

    “While the score isn’t what we want, we have to focus on the next game which allows us to go to the World Cup still,” he continued.

     

    “That is the big focus for us. We knew that this game (against Japan) would either get us to the World Cup directly, or if we lost, we would have to focus on the next game.

     

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    “The great thing is that we have a second chance here and the girls, we are also extremely determined to make sure that we go to that World Cup. While it was disappointing that we lost that game, we are also very positive and determined to make sure that we go to another World Cup.”

     

    That second chance comes in the form of a high-stakes playoff against Uzbekistan women’s national football team, where a victory would seal the Philippines’ place in Brazil. A loss would still leave one final lifeline via an inter-confederation playoff, but the Filipinas are intent on avoiding that longer route.

     

    Fatigue, however, looms as a real factor. The team’s journey across Australia — from Perth to Brisbane, then to Sydney, and back to the Gold Coast — has tested both physical and mental endurance.

     

    “We have to look at the travel that our girls have had since Day One,” Torcaso said. “We started in Perth, we travelled four hours to Brisbane, we had to turn around around five hours in sleep, played two games there (Gold Coast), and then we travel (in Sydney) to play against probably the best team in the competition.”

     

    Despite the grind, there is a quiet confidence within the camp. The Filipinas have already faced Australia, South Korea, and Japan — three of Asia’s elite — and emerged battle-tested.

     

    “It is not publicized enough that the Philippines has played the best three teams in Asia, I believe. We have done a damn good job at doing that and I think now, we are in a position where we have set ourselves up because of that first game against probably one of the favorites to win this Asian Cup. We have set ourselves up in a position where we can qualify,” he said.

     

    “It definitely takes a toll on the players because they have to work extremely hard defensively against these three teams. But now, we have got a really good focus on what we need to do against Uzbekistan. As I said, we have been able to rest a few players because they have been tired in the last couple of games. I know we have got a lot of fresh players coming into this next game against Uzbekistan.”

     

    For the Filipinas, the heavy loss to Japan may look like a setback on paper. But within the locker room, it is viewed as part of a larger plan — one that still leads to the World Cup stage.

     

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  • Women in Sports Awards 2026 to honor Filipino female athletes

    Women in Sports Awards 2026 to honor Filipino female athletes

    The third edition of the Women in Sports Awards is set to take center stage at the prestigious Philippine International Convention Center on Friday, March 20, in a ceremony dedicated to celebrating the accomplishments of Filipino women athletes across all levels of competition. The annual awards aim to not only honor outstanding performances in sports but also to inspire the next generation of female athletes in the country.

     

    Organized jointly by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and the Philippine Commission on Women, the Women in Sports Awards highlights the achievements of top female athletes and recognizes their contributions as role models for both aspiring athletes and the broader public. The awards program also underscores the importance of inclusive sports development and gender equality in Philippine athletics.

     

    PSC commissioner Bong Coo confirmed that a total of 83 awards will be handed out at this year’s star-studded ceremony. “We must really give special attention to our women athletes, including our para athletes—not just the athletes and their coaches, but also those who help build and promote women’s sports. These awards are for those who provide inspiration for all women in sports,” Coo said during a press briefing.

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    The awards event is also expected to draw prominent personalities from Philippine sports, government, and entertainment. The First Lady Liza Araneta Marcos will grace the occasion, both to hand out several of the major awards and to personally receive the special “Ina ng Atletang Pinoy” recognition for her advocacy and support of women’s sports in the country.

     

    Among the distinguished honorees this year, the Philippine women’s football team will be named Athletes of the Year, marking a major recognition for their continued excellence on the international stage. Angel Mae Otom will receive the Para Athlete of the Year award for her outstanding performances in para sports competitions, while Brenda Ramos Zinampan will be recognized with the Masters Award for her enduring contributions and success in masters-level competitions.

     

    This year’s Women in Sports Awards promises to be a memorable celebration of talent, perseverance, and empowerment, shining a spotlight on the women who continue to break barriers and inspire the nation through sports. Beyond the accolades, the event serves as a platform to promote advocacy for gender equality, encourage participation in sports at all levels, and showcase the remarkable achievements of Filipino women athletes both locally and internationally.

     

     

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  • PFF praises the Filipinas resilience after quarterfinal finish at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    PFF praises the Filipinas resilience after quarterfinal finish at the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    The Philippine women’s national football team saw its campaign in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup come to an end in the quarterfinals following a tough 7–0 loss to Asian powerhouse Japan women’s national football team on Sunday, March 15 at Stadium Australia.

     

    Facing one of the strongest sides in the global women’s game, the Filipinas struggled to contain Japan’s relentless attack, with the former champions demonstrating their depth and quality throughout the match. Despite the heavy defeat, the Philippine side showed moments of resilience against a team widely regarded as among the elite in international football.

     

    While the quarterfinal loss ended the Filipinas’ bid for the continental title, their journey in the tournament is not yet finished. The team will now shift its attention to a crucial play-in match against the Uzbekistan women’s national football team for a spot in the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will be held in Brazil.

     

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    Following the match, Philippine Football Federation president John Anthony Gutierrez commended the team for its determination and fighting spirit throughout the competition, emphasizing that the Filipinas’ performances have inspired fans back home.

     

    “The Filipinas delivered a campaign that every Filipino can be proud of, fighting bravely against three of the best teams in Asia in Australia, Korea Republic, and Japan. They definitely showed the character that defines our national team,” Gutierrez said.

    “While Japan proved their elite class today, our World Cup dream remains alive and we now move forward with determination as the Filipinas prepare for the play-in match against Uzbekistan,” he added.

     

    Head coach Mark Torcaso echoed similar sentiments, praising the effort and resilience shown by his players despite the difficult result against one of the world’s top-ranked teams.

     

    “We don’t want to lose any game that we play, but we also understand we were playing against probably one of the best teams in the world. I’m extremely proud of the girls and the effort they put in tonight,” Torcaso stated.

     

    The Australian tactician also highlighted the level of competition the Filipinas faced during the tournament, noting that the team battled several of the continent’s strongest sides.

     

    “It’s not publicized enough that the Philippines have played three of the best teams in Asia, and I believe probably three of the best teams in the world as well. We have done a really good job competing against them, and those experiences have helped put us in a position where will still have a chance to qualify for the World Cup,” he added.

     

    With their focus now shifting to the decisive play-in fixture, Torcaso and the Filipinas will prepare for a crucial showdown against Uzbekistan scheduled for Thursday at Gold Coast Stadium. A victory in the match would keep the Philippines’ hopes alive of qualifying for a second consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance.

     

     

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  • PAGCOR pledges P5 million to support Filipinas ahead of AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    PAGCOR pledges P5 million to support Filipinas ahead of AFC Women’s Asian Cup

    The Philippine women’s national football team, widely known as the Filipinas, is gearing up for one of the biggest challenges in its history: the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup in Perth, Australia. Fresh off a landmark campaign at the Southeast Asian Games, where the team captured hearts with its skill, resilience, and tactical discipline, the Filipinas are now setting their sights on making a mark on the continental stage.

     

    Their preparations received a significant boost recently as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) pledged P5 million to support the team’s campaign. This funding will be channeled through the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) to aid in training, international friendlies, and other preparatory activities leading up to the prestigious tournament.

     

    Alejandro Tengco, PAGCOR chairman and chief executive officer, reiterated the organization’s commitment to Filipino athletes.

     

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    “Our athletes carry the Philippine flag onto the world stage, and their victories inspire millions of Filipinos. When they succeed, the entire nation shares in that achievement. It is only fitting that we provide them with the support they need to train properly and compete at the highest levels,” Tengco said.

     

    He also emphasized that PAGCOR will remit five percent of its gross revenues to the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) following a Supreme Court ruling, a move that will expand resources for national sports programs.

     

    “With our increased remittances to the PSC, more resources are being made available for national sports programs. Beyond compliance, we believe in actively backing Filipino athletes who bring pride and recognition to the country,” Tengco added.

    For the PFF, this support comes at a critical time. Competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup demands extensive preparation, including high-level training camps, exposure to international competition, and the logistical costs of travel and accommodations. PFF president John Gutierrez expressed his gratitude for the timely assistance:

     

    “We are grateful to PAGCOR for stepping up at a crucial time in our preparations. Competing at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup requires significant resources for high-level training and international exposure. Continued support from our partners ensures that our athletes are fully equipped to compete with Asia’s best.”

     

    The Filipinas’ squad is a blend of seasoned leaders and rising stars. Veteran players provide stability and experience, while younger talents inject energy, pace, and creativity into the team’s tactical setup. Their SEA Games success has not only given them confidence but has also inspired a surge of interest in women’s football across the Philippines.

     

    Preparations for the Asian Cup are being carefully structured. Coaches are emphasizing team cohesion, technical refinement, and exposure to different playing styles through friendly matches against top Asian teams. Strength and conditioning programs, video analysis sessions, and tactical drills form the backbone of a training schedule designed to optimize the squad’s readiness.

     

    Beyond the technical and physical aspects, mental preparation is also a priority. The coaching staff is working to instill a strong competitive mindset, resilience under pressure, and a collective sense of purpose — all essential qualities for a tournament that features the continent’s elite teams.

     

    For fans, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup represents more than just matches on the field. It is a stage where the Filipinas can showcase the progress of women’s football in the country, inspire young players, and elevate the sport’s profile nationwide. Social media engagement, fan support, and media coverage have grown exponentially, reflecting a renewed enthusiasm for the team and the sport.

     

    With PAGCOR’s support and a meticulously planned preparation program, the Filipinas are poised to build on their SEA Games momentum. Every training session, friendly match, and tactical adjustment is geared toward one goal: proving that the Philippines belongs among Asia’s top women’s football teams.

     

    As the countdown to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup continues, expectations are high, but so is the determination of the Filipinas. The team’s journey is a story of national pride, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence — one that promises to inspire a new generation of footballers across the Philippines. Fans will be watching closely as the Filipinas step onto the continental stage, ready to carry the hopes of a nation and elevate Philippine women’s football to new heights.

     

     

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  • Filipinas captain Hali Long parts ways with Kaya FC after seven-year stint

    Filipinas captain Hali Long parts ways with Kaya FC after seven-year stint

    Philippine women’s national football team captain Hali Long continues to stand as one of the most accomplished, experienced, and widely respected figures in Philippine women’s football, a status earned through years of consistency, leadership, and success both at the club and international levels.

     

    Long is now set to embark on a new chapter in her career after officially parting ways with Kaya FC, bringing an end to her seven-year tenure with the Iloilo City–based club. Her departure marks the close of a highly successful era, during which she played a central role in Kaya’s rise as one of the dominant teams in the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) Women’s League and in regional competitions.

     

    Kaya FC paid tribute to their longtime captain and defensive stalwart through a heartfelt message on social media, acknowledging the lasting impact Long made on the club and the broader women’s football landscape.

     

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    “Thank you, Hali Long. Seven years in Kaya colors. A leader, a captain, and a constant presence through some of the club’s most historic moments. From captaining the first Philippine team to compete in the AFC Women’s Champions League, to leading us to five 7’s Cup titles and two PFF Women’s League championships, Hali’s legacy helped define an era for Kaya and for women’s football in the country.

     

    “She leaves Kaya as a champion – a leader her teammates believe in and someone who gave everything for this club. Forever part of the Kaya family.”

    Long, now 30, joined Kaya FC shortly after concluding her collegiate career with the Little Rock Trojans at the University of Arkansas, quickly establishing herself as a cornerstone of the club’s defense. Over the years, she became synonymous with Kaya’s success, known for her composure at the back, aerial strength, and commanding presence on the pitch.

     

    In addition to her domestic achievements, Long also gained valuable continental experience after being loaned to BGC–College of Asian Scholars for the preliminary stage of the AFC Women’s Champions League. Although the team fell short of reaching the group stage, the stint further underscored her importance as a leader capable of competing at the highest levels of Asian football.

     

    On the international stage, Long has been a fixture for the Philippine women’s national team since making her senior debut in 2016. Her longevity and consistency were etched into history when she became the first Filipina to earn 100 international caps, a milestone that highlighted her enduring contribution to the national program.

     

    She also played a pivotal role in the Filipinas’ most significant achievement to date—their historic gold medal victory at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand, where her leadership as captain helped guide the team through a pressure-filled tournament.

     

    While Long’s next club destination remains uncertain, her focus remains firmly on international duty. She is set to once again lead the Filipinas as captain in the upcoming Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup in March, a tournament that carries major implications as the Philippines targets qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

     

    As she prepares for the next phase of her career, Long’s departure from Kaya FC closes a defining chapter, but her influence on Philippine women’s football continues. Whether at club or international level, her experience, leadership, and winning mentality remain invaluable as the Filipinas aim to build on recent successes and reach new heights on the global stage.

     

     

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