AUCKLAND, New Zealand – The Philippine Football Federation hailed the performance of the Filipinas as well as the contry's support to the team’s campaign in the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup.
PFF president Mariano ‘Nonong’ Araneta said the Filipinas’ stint in the World Cup brought the Filipino community together during the campaign that saw the team made history once again by producing the first-ever win of the country in the highest competition of football.
See Hali Long pays tribute to current and former Philippine team members
“Over the course of the last 18 months, the Filipinas united the country in support in their maiden Fifa Women’s World Cup appearance,” said Araneta in a statement released on Monday. “While they may have missed out on qualification to the knockout stages, they have achieved something greater, and that was to see the entire Filipino community in the Philippines and wherever they are around the world show their overwhelming support to the team.”
Several Filipinos made the trip to New Zealand to watch the Filipinas’ games in Dunedin, Wellington, and Auckland. Filipinos based in New Zealand also came in droves for the matches, bringing a home game feel to the venues.
A treat for football fans
In the Philippines, watch parties were held in different venues, with the final pool play match drawing the biggest crowds.
The Filipinas’ campaign ended with a 6-0 loss to Norway but the federation lauded the team for the effort.
“We recognize the hard work and sacrifices this team have made to make our World Cup dream a reality. Thank you very much to the entire Filipinas team, led by team manager Jefferson Cheng and head coach Alen Stajcic, you have made the Filipino nation immensely proud of this team. Maraming salamat, Filipinas,” said Araneta.
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