THE Philippines will host the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup later this year, facing Poland, Morocco, and Argentina in Group A, following the official draw held on Monday at the BGC Arts Center in Taguig City.
The draw, staged at the BGC Arts Center in Taguig, was conducted by FIFA officials and assisted by Brazilian futsal great Falcao, Croatia coach Tihana Nemcic, Philippines defender Hali Long, and volleyball player Vanie Gandler.
The tournament, the first of its kind for women’s futsal, will take place from Nov. 21 to Dec. 7 in Pasig City, marking the Philippines’ debut in a global FIFA futsal event.
Argentina, one of the strongest sides in the Americas, will enter as favorites in Group A. Poland, led by striker Agata Bala, brings pace and attacking quality, while Morocco has made steady progress in recent years. The Philippines, coached by Dionesa Tolentin, is regarded as an “outsider” but will benefit from home support.
Elsewhere, Group B features Spain, Thailand, Colombia, and Canada, with Spain ranked second in the world. Portugal and Japan headline Group C, alongside Tanzania and New Zealand. Group D has been labelled the “Group of Death,” bringing together Brazil, Iran, Italy and Panama. Randy Caluag
Brazil, spearheaded by eight-time world futsal best player Amandinha, is a strong favorite for the title. Iran’s Maral Torkaman and Italy’s Brazilian-born contingent are expected to provide stiff competition.
Futsal, a fast-paced variant of football played indoors, has been gaining global popularity. FIFA’s decision to stage the first women’s edition in the Philippines is seen as recognition of the country’s growing enthusiasm for football and women’s sports.
Falcao predicted Brazil would “get through comfortably” but cautioned that the World Cup “always brings surprises.” Filipino fans will be hoping their team can deliver one on home soil. Randy Caluag
