The Filipinas are taking on World Cup co-host and world No. 22 New Zealand in a friendly at Cal State Fullerton’s Titan Stadium on September 7 (Manila time).
The friendly will come a week after the reigning AFF Women’s Champions have set camp in Irvine, California for their preparation for next year’s FIFA World Cup.
“We’ve been looking forward to this camp after a memorable and unforgettable AFF campaign,” said Alen Stajcic in a statement from the PFF.
“The match against New Zealand ranked No. 22 in the world will provide stern competition and build on the experience we have in the team.”
Cup qualification in the AFC Asian Cup 2022 India. The Filipinas also captured a bronze in the Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam in May, before notching a historic AFF Women’s Championship title in Manila last July.
This time around, the Filipinas have 27 players in the pool.
“We have five new players set to come in as we look to further strengthen the team and increase depth leading into 2023,” said Stajcic.
Team manager Jeff Cheng believes the squad is on the right track as the Filipinas work on their cohesion and team play in camp.
“We know there is plenty of work ahead of us if we want to be competitive in the World Cup,” said Cheng.
“Overseas camps and arranging matches are always challenging. But this is something that needs to be done for the team’s improvement. Our journey requires sacrifice from the players and the staff and the cooperation of everyone involved in our organization.”
Meanwhile, PFF president Nonong Araneta commended the Filipinas’ dedication and commitment to the national team, and thanked Cheng for his continuing support for the team.
“We are all very excited for next year’s World Cup,” added PFF general secretary Atty. Ed Gastanes.
