WELLINGTON, New Zealand — Filipinos from all over the world came in droves to support the Philippine team in Tuesday’s match against New Zealand in the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup.
It was festive outside the Wellington Regional Stadium as Filipinos started to come in to the venue hours before the 5:30 p.m. kickoff (1:30 p.m., Manila time).
See Filipinas and Ferns shine spotlight on football in their respective countries
Among those who made the trip were celebrities Ryan Agoncillo and Judy Ann Santos, who fell in love with the sport that their kids play.
“’Yung mga anak namin naglalaro ng football kaya nahilig na rin kami. Tsaka first time natin sa World Cup ever,” said Agoncillo.
Sydney-based fan Mark Ong also flew in to support the Filipinas.
“Malaking malaking karangalan ang ginawa nila para maka-qualify sa World Cup kaya ang masasabi ko, maraming salamat sa ating pambasang koponan,” said Ong.
Filipino fans in New Zealand, meanwhile, danced near the entrance of Wellington Regional Stadium clad in their Ati-Atihan costumes.
Parents of the Filipinas players based overseas were also spotted at the venue.
The Philippines will draw inspiration from the fans at the venue as it hopes to claim a win and stay alive in its bid to advance into the next stage against New Zealand.
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