International tournaments are always a struggle to win because matches have to fit such a tight schedule, which makes it a battle of attrition for all the teams that compete in them.
In just the second fixture of the 2022 AFF Women’s Championship, coach Alen Stajcic signaled his intent to maximize the players that he has at his disposal.
Compared to the Filipinas’ memorable win over the Under-23 Australian Matildas, Stajcic only retained defenders Hali Long and Dominique Randle, midfielder Jessica Miclat, and striker Sarina Bolden in the starting 11 against Singapore.
Any worries about the Filipinas putting their feet off the gas were put to rest after an emphatic 7-0 win over the Lionesses to take full control of top spot in Group A.
“It just shows the discipline within the team, shows the unity, shows the alignment that we have in the group and that everyone is focused on the same goal regardless of who comes on, regardless of which position they play — everyone knows their role so that’s another pleasing aspect of the game,” said Stajcic.
Starting last Monday, the Filipinas are scheduled to play every other day until Tuesday next week with the final match days scheduled on Friday and Sunday. This packed schedule will not only test the players’ physical state but also their mentality as the margin of error is so low.
Truly, every member of the team needs to pull her weight around and impose herself in training and official matches. Every small bit goes a long way especially with the Philippines chasing another milestone during this momentous year.
“It’s very important in a tournament like this where there are five games in nine days that everyone contributes. We’ve got a big squad and it’s important everyone in the squad contributes to this tournament if we’re gonna come out on top,” said the erstwhile Central Coast Mariners head coach.
With the FIFA Women’s World Cup happening next year, competition for places in the team will only get tougher each day. Every player needs to prove that she is worthy to make Stajcic’s team for the big dance.
Every second on the pitch counts and the 48-year-old mentor was satisfied after seeing his personnel changes pay off handsomely. There will be more tests in this tourney and he expects all of his players to do a job for him whenever they are called upon.
“I’m pleased that we could rotate a lot of new players into the team and we’re gonna continue that throughout the week and ensure that everyone gets an opportunity to put their hand up for a spot in the team long-term,” concluded Stajcic.
—
Catch the entire 2022 AFF Women’s Championship live on SMART Sports and Puso Pilipinas from July 4-18.</e
