'It’s not just our dream anymore': Filipinas inspire a new generation of girls with AFC Women’s Asian Cup milestone

The Philippine women’s national football team, the Filipinas, have reached the quarterfinals of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup—a milestone that secures them a place among Asia’s top eight teams. Beyond the sporting achievement, the moment highlights the growing impact of the team in inspiring young girls to pursue football and believe they can compete on the global stage.

The Filipinas are "representing something so much bigger than just ourselves, we’re representing the country and it’s not just our dreams anymore, it’s the dreams of so many young girls out there". Credit: AFC Women's Asian Cup

Key Points

• Historic Milestone for Philippine Football. By reaching the quarterfinals of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup, the Filipinas secured a top-eight finish in Asia, keeping their hopes alive for qualification to the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
• Pathway to the Olympics. The achievement also guarantees the Philippines a spot in the Asian qualifiers for the Summer Olympics, marking another major opportunity for the national team to compete on an even bigger international stage.
• Inspiring the Next Generation. Players like Malea Cesar emphasise that their success represents more than their own dreams—it reflects the hopes of countless young girls who now see a future for themselves in football and in representing the Philippines.

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'It’s not just our dream anymore': Filipinas inspire a new generation of girls with AFC Women’s Asian Cup milestone

SBS Filipino

11:06Filipino

Team Philippines will face powerhouse Japan in the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 quarter finals on Sunday, 15 March 2026 at the Stadium Australia in Sydney. Credit: AFC Women's Asian Cup

This is much bigger than just making the Quarter Finals. This is huge for our country… We have the responsibility to make sure that every young girl in the Philippines or around the world wants to play for our National Team for the long term.

Mark Torcaso, Head Coach - Team Philippines

Coach Mark Torcaso and Filipinas player Malea Cesar pose after a pre-match press conference befor their quarter finals match against Japan at the Stadium Australia. Credit: SBS Filipino

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