Filipinas ready to take on Australia in AFC Women’s Asian Cup clash

The Philippine women’s national football team, Filipinas, are ramping up their preparations ahead of a pivotal tournament in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia. With a chance to secure another Women’s World Cup berth, the stakes are higher than ever for the Southeast Asian champions.

Scheduled from March 1 to 21, 2026, the Continental tournament will feature 12 elite teams competing across three host cities, utilizing world-class stadiums that previously held matches during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023. 

The Filipinas’ Asian Cup journey begins with a marquee group stage opener — against hosts Australia on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM local time (Perth Stadium in Perth). This match will kick off the tournament and present an immediate challenge as the Filipinas seek to upset the Matildas on their home soil.

Fresh off their gold medal triumph at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in Thailand last December, the Filipinas have entered a month-long intensive training camp, led by head coach Mark Torcaso, to finalize the roster for the upcoming Asian Cup.

“We had a long camp since February first, but they’ve all been on programs since the SEA Games as well. So, it’s been really good to see them all come in really good shape and good fitness levels. But we pushed them a little bit more here,” Torcaso said.

The final lineup reflects a mix of experience and rising talent, designed to balance defensive solidity with offensive flair. 

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“WE’VE GOT A TALENTED GROUP MIXED WITH EXPERIENCE AND YOUNG PLAYERS”

Filipinas head coach Mark Torcaso shared his expectations for the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, as they open their campaign vs. hosts Australia.

He believes the country can return to the FIFA Women’s World… pic.twitter.com/ijHQ814r50

— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) February 20, 2026

Led by captain Hali Long, who anchors a disciplined and experienced backline, the goalkeepers Olivia McDaniel, Leah Bradley, and Nina Meollo who provide a strong backbone, while defenders Angie Beard, Malea Cesar, Jessica Cowart, Janae DeFazio, Kaya Hawkinson, Sophie Wunsch, and Ariana Markey complete the line.

In the midfield, the team will rely on creative playmakers and tenacious ball-winners like Jourdyn Curran, Sara Eggesvik, Carleigh Frilles, Jael-Marie Guy, Natalie Oca, alongside Isabella Pasion, Jaclyn Sawicki, and Ava Villapando.

Up front, forwards Alessandrea Carpio, Anicka Castañeda, Katrina Guillou, Chander McDaniel, Paige McSwigan, Alexa Pino, and Mallie Ramirez will lead the attack, though the team will be without Sarina Bolden, still recovering from a knee injury.

Beyond physical preparation, Torcaso has emphasized mental resilience and tactical awareness, aiming to ensure the team can handle the pressures of high-stakes continental competition. 

The upcoming Asian Cup not only tests the team’s skills but also serves as a barometer for the Philippines’ growing status in women’s football. 

With their blend of seasoned internationals and promising newcomers, the Filipinas are ready to make a statement — not just to qualify for the Women’s World Cup, but to assert themselves as a force to be reckoned with in Asia.

Following the Australia game, the Filipinas will continue their group-stage campaign with a match against South Korea on March 5.

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