Despite the absence of three key players, coach Mark Torcaso is upbeat about the Philippine women’s national football team’s chances in the coming Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 Qualifiers in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Core players, including Sarina Bolden, Katrina Guillou, and Reina Bonta, won’t be around due to injury or unavailability.
But the squad, affectionately known as the Filipinas, is still a very competitive group.
“We are confident in every player in our pool and we are excited by the 26 that will battle it out for us to get to the Asian Cup,” said Torcaso after the Philippine Football Federation officially announced the 26-player roster.
The Filipinas will be a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, with skipper Hali Long, fresh off her 90th international appearance, a friendly with Chinese Taipei, spearheading the team.
Among the key figures back are Sara Eggesvik, Jaclyn Sawicki, Olivia, McDaniel, Angela Beard, Jessika Cowart, Chandler McDaniel, Malea Cesar, Isabella Pasion, Janae Defazio, and Kaya Hawkinson.
Also returning after a brief absence are Quinley Quezada, Sofia Wunsch, Meryll Serrano, and Carleigh Frilles.
There will be youth standouts, like Nina Mathelus, Gabrielle Baker, Alexa Pino, Ava Villapando, and Chayse Ying.
Completing the squad are Nina Meollo, Rhea Arcenal Chan, Katana Norman, along with experienced locally-based players Inna Palacios, Dionesa Tolentin, and Charisa Lemoran
“I believe it’s well-balanced team and provides quality in every area of the pitch. It’s also great to see some of our strong, young players that have progressed and developed over the years join some of our World Cup superstars,” added Torcaso.