Filipina5 brace for tough group in FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup

The Philippine women’s national futsal team is set for a challenging campaign after landing in a tough Group A with world No. 6 Argentina, No. 14 Poland, and No. 31 Morocco in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025. The official draw was held Monday night, September 15, at the Bonifacio Global City Arts Center in Taguig.

This marks the third straight year the Philippines will host a World Cup, after successful stints in football and basketball. This time, futsal takes the spotlight as the country stages the historic inaugural edition of the women’s competition.

The group stage is scheduled from November 21 to December 7 at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City, which will serve as the sole venue following the Philippine Football Federation’s (PFF) decision to drop Victorias City from co-hosting duties due to logistical concerns.

The ceremony featured football icons and sporting personalities, including two-time FIFA Futsal World Cup champion Falcao, former Croatian futsal player Tihana Nemcic, Filipinas skipper Hali Long, and Alas Pilipinas volleyball standout Vanie Gandler.

PFF President John Gutierrez expressed gratitude for the trust given by FIFA:

“Starting November 21st, Women’s Futsal will shine on the global stage in the first ever FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup. We at the PFF are so honored to be part of this milestone.”

The Filipina5, as the squad is now called, will fly to Japan this month for a training camp. Head coach Rafa Merino has assembled a 20-player pool led by co-captains Inday Tolentino and Isabella Flanigan, which will later be trimmed down to the official 14-woman roster.

The Philippines will open its campaign against Poland, while the grand finale on December 7 will crown the first-ever champion of the tournament.