By: Icko De Guzman
FIFA President Gianni Infantino joined over 2,000 fans at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City as the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 officially kicked off on Friday evening, calling the groundbreaking tournament “just fantastic.”
Infantino arrived in Manila on Friday and was welcomed by PFF President John Gutierrez before heading to the venue to witness the historic opening matches.
Argentina won the first-ever game of the tournament against Morocco, 6-0, with Ana Ontiveros scoring the first-ever goal in FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup history.
Meanwhile, host nation Philippines, also known as Filipina5, fell to Poland by the same 6-0 scoreline.
“We are writing history, and to do it here in such a welcoming, beautiful country is something really special — for FIFA, for the Philippines, for all these women who are playing,” said Infantino. “It’s just fantastic. I think it’s about time that a big country like the Philippines, which is known all over the world for being so welcoming, is hosting a big FIFA event.
“To host the first one of what will be a competition that will grow immensely worldwide — the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup — is even more special. So, I’m really proud and really happy with what the Philippines have done here.”
During his visit, Infantino also met with Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio, FIFA Council Member and former PFF President Nonong Araneta, as well as members of the PFF Executive Committee.
“The Philippines have been, and are, a fantastic host for this first-ever FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup. It is a great event, a historic event, great for women’s futsal, great for women’s football, great for FIFA, great for the Philippines. I’m very, very happy and grateful to be here,” added the FIFA chief.
“It was also my pleasure to interact with Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Patrick Gregorio and learn about his dedication to football development in this country.”
Also present on opening night were Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto and members of the Philippine Women’s National Football Team, who are deep in preparations for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
The FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup resumes on Saturday with two Group B matches: Colombia vs. Canada at 5:00 PM, followed by Spain vs. Thailand at 7:30 PM.
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