MEMBERS of the Philippine women's football team are keeping calm in the wake of news that highly regarded coach Alen Stajcic won't be returning to the team after the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
The former Matildas coach's decision to seek out 'other opportunities' came as a surprise, considering the Filipinas had just made their first World Cup a memorable one highlighted by their first-ever win and goal.
READ: History-making Filipinas get warm welcome
Midfielder Sara Eggesvik is taking it all in stride.
“I see that as like, it’s normal in football.” said Eggesvik, who made the pass that led to Sarina Bolden's game-winner against New Zealand, on Wednesday upon the Filipinas' arrival.
“Nothing lasts forever. He did a really nice job and we’re grateful that he was with us and what he has achieved with us. But this is also maybe a new chapter for Filipino football.” she added.
Stajcic’s stint with the Filipinas was marked by whirlwind of success winning the AFF Women’s Championship, ending a medal drought in the Southeast Asian Games, and a first-ever World Cup appearance.
With the Asian Games and Olympic Qualifiers coming up, team coordinator Belay Fernando said preparations are still on track.
“We have to regroup, obviously, and the federation has been preparing already for this. This team has been purely focused on the job at the World Cup, and we’ll take a few days rest and then we go again.” said Fernando.
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