Filipinas Open AFC Women's Asian Cup Campaign Against Australia Today — Fresh Off SEA Games Gold, Ready for the Matildas
The Philippine women's national football team takes on powerhouse Australia in their opening match of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup today at Perth Stadium. It's a massive test for the Filipinas, who are riding high after winning gold at the 2025 Southeast Asian Games.
Coach Mark Torcaso says the team is ready. 'Weather's been good. The girls have been adjusting,' he said during the pre-match press conference. The Filipinas have been training in Perth for several days, getting used to conditions similar to what they experienced in Balesin Island and SM Sky pitch back home.
The Matildas, led by returning superstar Sam Kerr and bolstered by talents like Caitlin Foord and Mary Fowler, are the tournament hosts and heavy favorites. The last time these two teams met was during the 2023 Olympic Qualifiers, when Australia dominated 8-0 — a result the Filipinas are determined to improve on.
Goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel anchors the Philippine defense, with Hali Long, Angela Beard, Katrina Guillou, and Carleigh Frilles providing experience in key positions. The Filipinas are in Group A alongside Australia, Thailand, and Taiwan.
For Philippine women's football, just being in the Asian Cup is already a massive achievement. The Filipinas — who made history as semifinalists in the 2022 edition — are looking to prove they belong on the continental stage and potentially qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup through this tournament.
Source: Sports Bytes Philippines / ABC Australia
