Beyond Hosting: Philippines eyes competitive impact in inaugural Women’s Futsal World Cup

The Philippines is set to make history as it prepares to host the very first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup, aiming not only to deliver a world-class event but also to demonstrate that the nation can compete with some of the sport’s elite teams.

With just 92 days left before kickoff, Philippine Football Federation (PFF) president John Gutierrez expressed confidence in the country’s preparations, emphasizing the importance of promoting futsal, which has a growing but still niche following in the Philippines.

“We are on time with all of the preparations. We have been closely working with FIFA, holding meetings almost every day and getting updates on developments like upgrading venues to meet FIFA standards. It’s looking good for us,” Gutierrez said during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.

📣 Calling all Football & Futsal Fans!
This is your moment to be part of history and help shine the spotlight on women’s futsal! ⚽️💫

The inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025 is happening right here in the Philippines and we want YOU on this journey! 🇵🇭🔥 pic.twitter.com/QCCdpobJXJ

— Philippine Women’s Football Association (@PHWomensFA) July 22, 2025

He acknowledged that challenges may arise but praised the Local Organizing Committee for working closely with FIFA to ensure a successful tournament. “We expect some chinks here and there, but we are prepared. The committee is doing an excellent job to make sure we host this very prestigious event,” he added.

Beyond hosting, Gutierrez stressed the PFF’s goal of showcasing the Philippines’ talent on the global stage. “We are not here just to participate. We are here to make an impact. If we view ourselves as mediocre compared to these powerhouses, then what’s the point? Realistically, we aim to be very competitive,” he said.

Head coach Rafa Merino has already named a 20-player pool, led by co-captains Inday Tolentino and Isabella Flanigan. The final squad of 14 players will be selected after cutting six players before the tournament. The team, known as the Filipina5, is scheduled to travel to Japan for a training camp in mid-September and hopes to face a European team during the FIFA window in October.

The official draw ceremony for the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup will take place on September 15 at the BGC Arts Center. The tournament is set to run from November 21 to December 7, with matches at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City and the Victorias City Coliseum in Negros Occidental.

“It’s truly a milestone for women’s sports that the World Cup for women’s futsal is finally here. We are excited and thankful to FIFA for trusting us to host this historic event,” Gutierrez concluded.

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