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Manila Bulletin devider Sports devider Filipina5 begin quest for futsal glory

Filipina5 begin quest for futsal glory

Published Nov 20, 2025 03:00 pm

At A Glance

  • The Philippine women's futsal team embarks on its quest for glory when it battles Poland in the opener of the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup which kicks off at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City Friday, Nov. 21.
(FIFA)
(FIFA)
The Philippine women’s futsal team embarks on its quest for glory when it battles Poland in the opener of the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup which kicks off at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City Friday, Nov. 21.
Determined to make a statement in front of home fans, the Filipina5, ranked 63rd, push for a strong performance in their 8:30 p.m. clash against the No. 14 Polish which will go after the collision between Morocco and Argentina at 6 p.m.
The showdown of the four elite squads from Group A is expected to get more exciting with top local and international officials, led by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, gracing the opening ceremony of the two-week long competition.
Bella Flanigan, member of the women’s national football team, headlines the pack alongside Jaclyn Sawicki, Katrina Guillou, and 11 other elite booters with Rafael Merino serving as manager.
“I know our home crowd will bring the energy and fight with us until the very end. Poland is a very strong team and, as always, it is an honor to be able to share the court with such amazing female athletes,” said Flanigan.
“Our mentality of puso, tiwala, and samasama will be what’s leading us into the match. We are excited for the challenge and are excited to show what we can do on the world stage,” she added.
Next for the Philippines is Morocco on Monday, Nov. 24, then it tangles with Argentina on Thursday, Nov. 27, with both games held at the same venue.
“One thing for sure, we belong here, we’re up to the challenge, we’re not just here to join but to compete," said Philippine Football Federation president John Gutierrez.
Before entering the 16-country field composed of seven confederations across the globe, the Filipina5 trained in Barcelona and Madrid where they faced top Spanish teams for two weeks.
“I have a strong feeling that we will win because on home court the Filipino heart beats faster. That is the magic of sports tourism,” said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick Gregorio. “We thank FIFA for this historic partnership and the Department of Tourism for believing in sports as a window for the world to see the Philippines.”
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