AUCKLAND — There are only eight days left before the Philippine Women’s National Football Team makes its debut in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup against Switzerland here.
Excitement is building for the Filipinas’ entry onto the global stage. With the final list of 23 players already announced, there is no turning back as the Philippines prepares to venture into unknown frontiers.
In the remaining time, coach Alen Stajcic and his staff are refining areas that they believe can be improved for the team.
“These are the last few days of training before our friendly against Sweden, and then we go up against Switzerland,” said Stajcic. “I’m really looking forward to the week ahead. We’re constantly finding ways to improve, both on and off the ball, tactics, set pieces, always focusing on our mentality.
“We’re continuously fine-tuning and paying attention to the details in order to improve as individuals and as a team. I think we’re all just really excited to get to the starting line.”
It takes a special team to make history time and time again. Now that these players will be facing nations ranked higher than them, they will need to remain composed and cohesive in order to secure points in the group stage.
The challenge will be tough, but the Filipinas will face it head-on with a united front.
“It’s been fantastic; I can’t fault any of the players. It’s such a beautiful group to work with and train with. You know, I think they are all really excited, but to be honest, they’re not really showing it at the moment,” said the former Central Coast Mariners coach.
“They’re simply demonstrating their willingness to work hard and improve day by day. The team culture is fantastic, and belief within the team grows every day.”
The outcome of these preparations will be determined by how the Filipinas perform against Switzerland. The pressure to win will be present right from the first whistle.
The former Australia mentor will rely on his team’s chemistry, which has been developed through various camps and over the past few weeks.
“I hope we can carry that into the first game. I hope they can demonstrate that we can be a force and be competitive on the world stage. I have nothing but praise for the entire group,” concluded Stajcic.
