Philippines World Cup: Philippines’ Women’s World Cup debut is unprecedented. When they play Switzerland, they become the first Southeast Asian team to qualify. Talented and passionate dual US nationals helped the team reach the World Cup.
Alen Stajcic, a former Australian Women’s National Team player, coaches the Filipino team.
Stajcic’s three-month Filipino contract began before the World Cup qualifiers. He desired tournament success. A year and a half later, his coaching staff shaped the team’s journey.
“We’ve come a long way,” Stajcic boasted. They’ve improved and played more.
They practiced against various styles. The team played 30 matches last year. Stajcic feels they’ve prepared well for the World Cup.
We can compete next week. We’re underdogs. “But at the same time, I know that we come into that starting line with good preparation under our belts, with a belief and confidence that’s grown over time,” Stajcic told CNN in an exclusive interview.
US-diaspora Filipina-Americans have helped the team succeed. Coach Stajcic stressed that players with a strong Filipino connection and great footballing skills can represent the Philippines abroad.
Players like California-born Sarina Bolden, who scored the Philippines’ World Cup penalty kick, appreciate this inclusive approach. Bolden never visited the Philippines before joining the national team. Her skills make her a team star.
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Western Sydney Wanderers A-League player Bolden was optimistic. She thinks the World Cup will boost soccer interest locally and among the Filipino diaspora.
Loyola Marymount University’s LMU Lions star went to the World Cup. Bolden played professional football in Europe, the US, Taiwan, and Japan. She led the Philippines to their first AFC Women’s Asian Cup knockout stage in 2022.
Philippine interest in Bolden increased after the team’s historic World Cup qualification. Her country’s tournament participation excites Filipino Americans.
“I think the excitement is really growing from grassroots,” she says correctly. Word is spreading fast.The Filipino diaspora celebrates the nation’s greatness worldwide.
The Philippines women’s soccer team is united, determined, and talented thanks to a passionate Filipino diaspora. As they make their long-awaited international debut, they represent a nation and a global community united by their love of the beautiful game. Their World Cup journey will inspire Filipino and global soccer fans.
Our Reader’s Queries
Will Philippines ever qualify for World Cup?
The Philippines secured their debut spot in the FIFA Women’s World Cup after reaching the semifinals of the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. This marks the first time the country has ever qualified for a FIFA World Cup, regardless of gender or age group.
Is Philippines still in the World Cup?
The national team has yet to make it to the FIFA World Cup and has only managed to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup once, in 2019.
How many times did the Philippines win the World Cup?
The Philippines clinch historic World Cup victory for the first time.
Is World Cup televised in Philippines?
Catch the live broadcast of the games on TV5 and One Sports on national free TV. For cable TV subscribers, the games will also be available on One Sports Plus and PBA Rush. If you prefer to watch through pay-per-view, you can tune in via Cignal and Satlite. Don’t miss out on the action!