Led by coach Alen Stajcic, who formerly coached the Australian Women’s National Team, the squad will make history no matter the result of Friday’s game. ‘The word is spreading’Before joining the national team, California born Sarina Bolden – whose penalty kick clinched the island nation’s spot at the tournament – had never been to the Philippines. The 27-year-old is hopeful her country’s presence in the World Cup will promote soccer both in the Philippines – where other sports such as basketball and boxing remain more popular – and among the Filipino diaspora. In 2022, she was a key part of the Philippine National team that progressed to the knockout stages of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the first time. Bolden said she’s already seen awareness and interest grow in the Philippines following the team’s on field successes and historic qualification for the World Cup.

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Persons: they’ll, Alen Stajcic, Stajcic, “, ”, ” Stajcic, Sarina Bolden –, –, “ Everyone’s, Bolden, ” Bolden, she’s Organizations: New Zealand CNN, Philippines ’, Women’s National Team, CNN, Filipina, Western Sydney Wanderers, Loyola Marymount University, LMU Lions, Philippines, Philippine National, AFC, women’s Locations: Auckland, New Zealand, Philippines, Switzerland, United States, California, Los Angeles, Europe, US, Asia, Taiwan, Japan