Vice President Leni Robredo is one with the Philippine Women’s National Football Team in its campaign in the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Mumbai, India.
The Philippines put up a gallant stand against Australia, which saw the Filipinas give the Matildas a tough time in the first half before succumbing to a 0-4 defeat. And Robredo said that she remains proud of the team and can’t wait for what lies ahead.
“Good luck sa lahat ng members ng Philippine Women’s National Football Team as you compete in the AFC Women’s Asia Cup 2022,” said Robredo.
“Thank you very much for bringing pride and honor to our country. Ngayon pa lang, proud na proud na kami sa inyo! Kasama ninyo ako at ang buong bansa na nagchee-cheer sa inyo sa laban na ito at sa mga susunod pa.”
Headlining the Philippine team that is vying for one of the five World Cup slots are co-captains Tahnai Annis and Hali Long.
Cam Rodriguez, Inna Palacios, Sara Castaneda, Sarina Bolden, Quinley Quezada, Chandler McDaniel, Tara Shelton, and Sofia Harrison are also part of the squad.
Meanwhile, making their debuts are Katrina Guillou, Kiara Fontanilla, Dominique Randle, Isabel Flanigan, Keanne Alamo, and Carleigh Frilles.
The team is coached by Alen Stajcic and is assisted by Nahuel Arrarte, goalkeeping coach Ludovic Antunes, fitness coach Luca Tonetti, and former national team player Patrice Impelido.
Though battling a COVID-19 outbreak within the team for the past week, the team still sits at number two in the Group B table with three points. Meanwhile, Australia is on top with six.
On the other hand, Thailand (whom the Philippines defeated 1-0 last Friday), and Indonesia (whom the Philippines faces on Thursday) have three and no points, respectively.
The top two teams in the pool will advance to the knockout playoffs.
“Again, good luck at mag-iingat kayo diyan! Laban Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang atletang Pilipino!” expressed Robredo.
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