The Philippine Women’s National Football Team may have ended their historic run in the 19th Asian Games on Saturday with a 1-8 loss to Japan.
But for new coach Mark Torcaso, it became an opportunity for him and the girls to get to know one another and how they will interact in future tournaments, and in the coming Olympic qualification games.
“This was a good opportunity to work with them in a good competition. The tournament has served its purpose for us,” said Torcaso in a Zoom huddle with Filipino scribes, a day after their quarterfinals’ match in Wenzhou, China.
The Filipinas finished with their highest placing in Asian Games football since the Azkals reached the same stage back in 1958.
Sarina Bolden gave the Filipinas their lone score in the 67th minute, her fourth goal in as many matches in the tournament.
And it was Bolden’s 26th strike for the Philippines in 43 international appearances.
“We wanted to get as much time as we can with the players, both experienced players and the strong ones who are available,” said Torcaso a day before he returns to Australia.
With Japan’s win, they earned a clash against China in the semifinals of the competition this Tuesday.
On the other hand, the Filipinas are now getting ready for the second round of qualifiers for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, which will be held in Perth, Australia later this month.