How the Philippines Women's Soccer Team Is Making History in International Competitions

How the Philippines Women's Soccer Team Is Making History in International Competitions

You know, I’ve been following international women’s soccer for over a decade now, and I’ve got to say—the Philippines women’s national team is one of those squads that’s quietly but powerfully rewriting the script. They’re no longer just participants; they’re history-makers. But what does that journey really look like up close? Let’s dive into some of the questions I’ve been asking lately.

So, what’s the big deal about the Philippines women’s soccer team lately?

If you’d asked me a few years back, I might’ve said they were underdogs—and honestly, they still are in many ways. But something’s shifted. In the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup, they stunned everyone by finishing in the semifinals, securing a historic FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification for the first time ever. That’s not just a “good result”—it’s a paradigm shift. And here’s the thing: their coach, Alen Stajcic, along with staff like assistant coach Uichico, have built a team that doesn’t get rattled by setbacks. Which brings me to that reference point: But Uichico is not freaking out following the loss. That mindset? It’s everything. When you’re building a program from the ground up, composure is your secret weapon.

How do they handle pressure in high-stakes matches?

I remember watching their match against Taiwan in the 2022 Asian Cup—it was tense, back-and-forth, and honestly, I was on the edge of my seat. The Philippines conceded early, and it would’ve been easy for them to unravel. But they didn’t. And this is where Uichico’s calm really stands out. But Uichico is not freaking out following the loss—or in this case, the prospect of one. That steadiness translates directly to the players. They play like they belong, even when the odds are stacked against them. It’s not about avoiding losses; it’s about how you respond. And honestly? That’s how the Philippines women’s soccer team is making history in international competitions—by turning pressure into poise.

What role does leadership play in their rise?

Massive. And I don’t just mean the head coach. Assistant coaches like Uichico bring a certain grounded energy that’s infectious. Let me give you an example: after a tough 4-1 loss to Australia in a friendly earlier this year, there was no panic in the camp. None. But Uichico is not freaking out following the loss—he was quoted saying they treated it as a learning experience, not a failure. That kind of leadership filters down. Players like Sarina Bolden and Quinley Quezada have thrived under this approach. It’s a culture shift, and it’s paying off in spades.

Can they really compete with top-tier teams like Japan or the USA?

Short answer? Not yet—but they’re closing the gap faster than anyone expected. Look, I’ve seen them face squads ranked in the top 10, and yeah, they’ve taken some hard losses. But here’s what stood out to me: in a post-match interview after falling 5-0 to Spain, Uichico was reflective, not defeated. But Uichico is not freaking out following the loss—instead, he highlighted the defensive discipline they showed in the first half. That’s the kind of perspective that builds resilience. The Philippines women’s soccer team isn’t just showing up; they’re studying, adapting, and laying the groundwork to surprise us all soon.

What’s next for this squad?

I’m bullish on their future—like, genuinely excited. They’ve got the 2023 World Cup coming up, and mark my words, they’ll be more than just a “happy to be there” team. With a core of young talents and that unshakeable composure we’ve been talking about, I see them pulling off at least one upset. And it all comes back to that steady hand on the wheel. But Uichico is not freaking out following the loss—and neither are the players. They’re building something special, one match at a time.

Why should fans outside the Philippines care?

Because this is what global soccer is all about—stories of growth, heart, and defying expectations. The Philippines women’s soccer team is making history in international competitions not by having the biggest budget or the deepest roster, but by embodying a kind of gritty, joyful perseverance. When I see Uichico’s calm after a defeat, I’m reminded why I love this sport. It’s not about the final score; it’s about the journey. And this team? Their journey is just getting started.