Philippine Women’s National Football Team Faces United States in Secret Friendly Ahead of World Cup Debut
The Philippine Women’s National Football Team, competing in the Fifa Women’s World Cup for the first time, had a surprise opportunity to face the defending two-time champion United States in a closed-door friendly in Auckland. The exhibition match, which took place before their landmark debut against Switzerland, was kept under wraps until it was revealed by ESPN’s Caitlin Murray.
The presence of the United States team at the friendly came as a dream come true for many members of the Filipinas squad, particularly those who were born and raised in the US and witnessed the country’s dominance in women’s football. The Filipinas have made efforts to tap into talent with Filipino heritage to boost their chances of success. In fact, one Yahoo! Sports report dubbed the Filipinas as “America’s other Women’s World Cup team.”
While the Filipinas have not officially confirmed the friendly, sources have indicated that talks between the two teams began as early as May, with the aim of having an exhibition match to help the Filipinas prepare for the World Cup. It was reportedly important for the Filipinas to face a team similar to those in their group in Southeast Asia.
When asked if the recruitment strategy involved tapping into Filipinos born abroad, Filipinas coach Alen Stajcic emphasized that the team prioritizes players with Filipino hearts and blood who possess exceptional football skills. “Anyone with a Filipino passport, I don’t really care where they are born. If they have the Philippines in their heart and in their blood and they are a good footballer then they are eligible for our team,” said Stajcic.
The Filipinas’ participation in the World Cup is seen as a landmark moment for the team, and they have garnered support from Filipino communities around the world. The team’s manager expressed gratitude for the diaspora’s support, saying, “I just know that this team has Filipino heart and blood and courage and spirit and that’s only the criteria regardless of their birth.”
The Philippine Women’s National Football Team is gearing up for their debut match against Switzerland, as they continue to make their mark on the global stage.
