Filipina5 opens Futsal Asian Cup run against reigning champs Iran

May 7 ------ THE newly-christened Filipina5 will start their 2025 AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup stint today in Hohhot, China. The Philippines battles two-time champion Iran to begin its campaign in Group B where they will look to make it into the top two and advance to the quarterfinals outright. The tournament is actually a qualifier for the FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup, but the Philippines has already booked an automatic place being the host country of the event that will run from November 25 to December 7 in Victorias City and Pasig City. 

Still, the Filipina5, whose moniker was revealed before they left for China for the tournament, looks for a respectable performance in the Asian tilt as they also prepare for the World Cup. “We have assembled a talented, competitive, and dedicated group of players who are eager to compete at the highest level in Asia,” said PH head coach Rafa Merino Rodriguez. “This tournament is a crucial step in our preparation for the FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup, and we are confident that the team will give their absolute best in every match.” 

Bella Flanigan and Dionesa Tolentin lead the team after scoring a pair of goals during the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup qualifiers held from January 11 to 19 where the Philippines still opted to compete even with the automatic spot in the World Cup. The Philippine team was able to qualify in the Asian Cup on its own merit by being the best third-placed team to join host China, Iran, Japan, Thailand, Bahrain, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Australia, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Chinese Taipei in the tournament. 

Other members of the team are Rocelle Maria Mendaño, Alisha Del Campo, Regine Rebosura, Samantha Jane Hughes, Judy Lynn Connolly, Cathrine Graversen, Kayla Maureen Santiago, Vrendelle Nuera, Hazel Lustan, Charisa Marie Lemoran, Isabella Bandoja, and Lanie Ortillo. Part of the Philippines’ group is Iran, the only champions of the tournament having won the 2015 and 2018 editions. It will also face Southeast Asia neighbor Vietnam on May 9, and Hong Kong on May 11. “We are incredibly proud of the progress of our Women's National Futsal Team. Although the team has already qualified for the World Cup, they have still been working really hard and are determined to prove that they too, are deserving to compete on the international stage," said Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez. 

Their participation in the AFC Asian Cup Finals is a testament to the growth of futsal in the Philippines, and I am optimistic that we have built the strongest team possible. We wish the team the best of luck in China and look forward to witnessing their competitive spirit." 

Source: spin.ph