PREVIEW: Filipinas face monumental, but not impossible, task in FIFA Women’s World Cup

After months of anticipation, it’s lastly upon us.

On July 21, 2023, the Philippines is about to compete within the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the very first time.

After securing direct qualification to the World Cup by way of a semi-finals berth within the 2022 AFC Asian Cup, the Filipinas had an unprecedented 18 months to organize for one in all soccer’s greatest levels, enjoying friendlies in Europe and South America together with coaching camps in Australia.

The last 23 gamers have additionally been chosen, with a wholesome mixture of veterans and younger gamers raring to show their price to the world.

Some could say that the Philippines acquired the luck of the draw, getting hosts New Zealand, Switzerland, and Norway in Group A and avoiding the normal soccer heavyweights.

But it was at all times going to be powerful for the a lot lower-ranked Philippines whoever they’ll face, particularly towards the extra skilled European groups.

Group A, nonetheless, provides the Philippines greater than a sliver of hope, and whereas it’ll take a monumental effort from the group to earn factors and progress, it’s not inconceivable.

To get a historic consequence, it will likely be a lot anticipated that the Filipinas will make use of compact and resolute protection anchored on a again 4 led by Hali Long and Angie Beard.

As one of many captains of the group, Long has been the leaders of the group on and off the pitch. But her management – and her expertise marshalling the again – will likely be put to the final word take a look at towards robust opposition.

She could also be a late addition to the group, however there isn’t any questioning Beard’s credentials and expertise, particularly on the defensive finish the place she could have her work lower out for her.

Midfielders Jackie Sawicki, Sara Eggesvik, and captain Tahnai Annis will equally must run their socks off to assist each the protection and the ultimate third.

All eyes will likely be on talisman Sarina Bolden as she’s going to look to hold the scoring cudgels of the group, and Quinley Quezada will quietly look so as to add to her file targets for the nation.

A defensive mindset could also be what the followers count on, however for group supervisor Jefferson Cheng, a successful mindset is equally essential.

“The mindset is we want to win all matches that we participate in, that is why we provide the best possible preparation for the team before every tournament,” says Cheng.

For Coach Alen Stajcic, “The objectives are clear.”

“To improve every time we go out on the field and to work hard and prepare to give ourselves the best possible chance of winning against any opponent.”

I used to be lucky to have witnessed the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada, seeing Aya Miyama rating for Japan and becoming a member of scores of Japanese rejoice the gorgeous sport.

This time, heading to New Zealand to assist our very personal nation, the one factor that I’m very a lot wanting ahead to other than cheering on our group, is listening to our nationwide anthem performed in a World Cup for the very first time.

As a fan it will probably get emotional, however one can solely think about the sensation that the gamers would undergo, listening to the strains of “Lupang Hinirang” on the World Cup stage.

Captain Hali Long says, “I can’t tell you exactly how I (will) feel, but it’s just so overwhelming.”

“It’s overwhelming, full of joy, and really grateful and honored that I get to do that for the Philippines.”

There is a palpable sense of pleasure and pleasure with the ability to make it to the FIFA Women’s World Cup – and rightly so. Qualification will not be straightforward and by no means assured, so participation needs to be enthusiastically celebrated.

That is why it’s hoped that sports activities followers throw their assist behind the group from the onset, they deserve this a lot.

Let’s go Filipinas!

The world awaits.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News