The Philippines will travel to China in May to play in the Asian Cup. —CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/PFF
The Philippines shrugged off the controversy surrounding their preparation and secured qualification for the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup despite a 2-1 loss to Australia in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
Sunday’s defeat did not prevent the Philippine futsal team from advancing to the continental tournament to be held in May in China after finishing third best among the four groups after the eight-day qualifying phase.
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That means the Philippines will benefit from having competitive matches as part of its preparation for the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup the country will host in November.
Feeling of relief
Led by Spanish coach Rafa Merino and the pillars of the women’s soccer team Katrina Guillou and Bella Flanigan, the ladies added seven points with two wins, one draw and one loss, behind Australia (12 points) and the group host, Uzbekistan (also with seven points, but ahead). by goal difference).
The performance should give the Philippine Football Federation perhaps a sense of relief and vindication after having disagreements with the team’s previous sponsor over the team’s preparation.
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PFF fired Dutch coach Vic Hermans last December, a decision that was ultimately followed by Danny Moran resigning as team manager.
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The Philippine team opened the campaign with a 4-1 victory over Kuwait. A Judy Connolly equalizer helped salvage a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan before the Philippines defeated Turkmenistan 2-0.
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Guillou took his scoring talent to the inside stage and scored four goals for the Philippines.
Flanigan and Tolentin, also FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 veterans, also scored two goals each, while goalkeeper Samantha Hughes had her strong moments between the sticks.
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The top four are expected to feature prominently for both the Asian Cup and World Cup, although the PFF said before the qualifiers that roster spots will need to be earned. INQ
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