Philippine Women’s Futsal Team Gears Up for AFC

The Philippine Football Federation (PFF) has unveiled a strong national women’s futsal pool, composed of local and international talent, as it prepares for the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup in China, scheduled from May 6 to 17.

The selection follows an extensive nationwide talent identification initiative, showcasing the PFF’s commitment to expanding women’s futsal across the country.

“This pool represents the culmination of a nationwide effort to discover and develop the best women’s futsal talent,” said PFF President John Gutierrez. “We are confident that under Coach Rodriguez’s guidance, we will build a team capable of strong performances at the AFC Asian Cup and beyond.”

The Talent ID Camps, led by national team Coach Rafa Merino Rodriguez, PFF Director of Football Vince Santos, and assistant coach Aris Bocalan, were conducted from February 15 to 27 in key locations, including Dipolog, Cebu, Davao, and the National Capital Region (NCR). These camps provided athletes from over 20 Regional Football Associations a platform to showcase their skills.

Approximately 180 athletes participated in the tryouts, which assessed technical abilities, tactical awareness, and overall performance. Former national team players also contributed their expertise during the camps.

“We’ve identified significant talent throughout these camps,” said Coach Rodriguez. “This pool, with focused development, has the potential to compete strongly against our Asian rivals. While challenging, we’ve seen players with excellent technical skills and game understanding, and we’re now focused on molding them into a cohesive, competitive team.”

The selected pool includes Sheen Borres, Judy Connoly, Alisha Del Campo, Isabella Flanigan, Cathrine Graversen, Katrina Guillo, Samantha Hughes, Rocelle Mendaño, Vrendelle Nuera, Regine Rebosura, Kayla Santiago, Dionesa Tolentin, Mykaella Abeto, Trisha Advincula, Princess Amilhamja, Joyce Gemberva, Charisa Lemoran, Alyssa Lucero, Hazel Luztan, Lanie Ortillo, Camille Rodriguez, Althea Rebosura, and Isabella Bandoja.

The team will now undergo intensive training, focusing on individual skills, team tactics, and cohesion. From this pool, only 14 players will be selected for the final roster to compete in the AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup.

The AFC Asian Women’s Futsal Cup presents a tough challenge for the Philippines, as the team has been drawn into Group B alongside Iran, Vietnam, and Hong Kong, China.

“We have assembled a team that embodies the spirit and resilience of Philippine football,” said Vince Santos, PFF Director of Football. “Our goal is to compete with the best in Asia and make our nation proud. The blend of local and international players provides a strong foundation for future success.”

The PFF’s efforts to develop women’s futsal have reignited enthusiasm for the sport in the country. The Talent ID Camps, which reached athletes across various regions, reflect the federation’s dedication to grassroots development.

The AFC campaign is part of the PFF’s larger vision, as the Philippines is set to host the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup from November 21 to December 7.

“Our focus is not only on the AFC competition but also on building a team that can compete at the highest level,” said Coach Rodriguez. “The FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup is a historic opportunity for the Philippines, and we are committed to making it a success.”

With its growing pool of talent and a robust development program, the Philippine Women’s National Futsal Team is poised to make its mark in the Asian futsal scene and beyond.