Philippines gears up for landmark hosting of FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup

The Philippines is gearing up not only to deliver a world-class hosting of the very first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup but also to prove it can compete with some of the sport’s elite nations.

With just 93 days left before kickoff, Philippine Football Federation (PFF) president John Gutierrez assured that preparations are right on track for the tournament, which will run from November 21 to December 7 at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City and the Victorias City Coliseum in Negros Occidental.

“We are on time with all of the preparations. We have been closely working with FIFA. We’ve been having meetings almost every day, updates on certain developments like venues getting them up to par with FIFA standards,” Gutierrez said during the Philippine Sportswriters Association Forum.

“It’s looking good for us. We expect some chinks here and there but we’re prepared for it. The local organizing committee (LOC) is doing an excellent job working with FIFA to make sure we are able to host this very prestigious event.”

Ready to make history!

The Philippines will host the first ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup in 2025! pic.twitter.com/BwAdJAvnws

— FIFA (@FIFAcom) May 15, 2024

According to Sabella “Belay” Fernando, head of government relations for the tournament’s LOC, a total of 16 teams have secured their spots, including the host nation. The event recently received an added push following Administrative Order No. 35, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which created an Inter-Agency Task Force to support the country’s hosting.

The competing nations include:

• Europe: Spain, Italy, Poland, Portugal 
• Asia: Iran, Japan, Thailand, Philippines 
• Africa: Morocco, Tanzania 
• North America: Canada, Panama 
• South America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia 
• Oceania: New Zealand 

Gutierrez stressed that the home squad, the Filipina5, will not simply be content with participation despite the powerhouse lineup.

“We’re not here just to participate. We’re here to make an impact,” he declared, pointing to Spain, Italy, Brazil, Thailand, and Canada as among the top contenders.

“And if we look at ourselves as mediocre to these powerhouses, then what’s the point of us participating,” Gutierrez added.

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