Filipinas vs Matildas: The Philippine Women's Football Team Is Ready to Shock Australia at the Asian Cup — Here's Why They're Not Scared
The last time the Philippine Women's National Football Team — the Filipinas — faced Australia's Matildas, they got destroyed 8-0. That was during the 2023 Olympic Qualifiers, and it's a result that still stings. But as they prepare to face Australia again in the opening match of the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup in Perth, this is a completely different team with a completely different attitude.
'Our last outing against Australia sticks out like a sore thumb, the absolute opposite of what this team stands for,' said defender Angie Beard, a former Matilda herself who now plays for the Filipinas. Midfielder Jackie Sawicki echoed the confidence: 'The dynamic of this team has really changed within the last year. I believe the combination of our newer players with the veterans will push us to compete against the best.'
The Filipinas come into the tournament off a gold medal at last year's Southeast Asian Games — proof that the reset under Australian head coach Mark Torcaso is working. Since his appointment after the 2023 World Cup, Torcaso has consistently introduced players of Filipino descent and integrated youth national team members, building depth that previous squads lacked.
They won't have their top scorers though. Sarina Bolden, who scored at the 2023 World Cup, ruptured her ACL in April 2025 and remains uncertain. Second all-time scorer Quinley Quezada is out after announcing her pregnancy. Long-time goalkeeper Inna Palacios retired in December. But the youth pipeline is delivering — Mallie Ramirez, Alexa Pino, and Jael-Marie Guy all impressed at the SEA Games and are ready for the big stage.
The Asian Cup opener against Australia is set for March 1 in Perth. It's a tough draw for the Filipinas in Group A, but they also face South Korea and Iran. After making history at the 2023 World Cup — the country's first-ever qualification — this team isn't just happy to be there anymore. They want wins. Laban, Filipinas!
Source: ABC News Australia
