Under new leadership, U17 footballers just getting started
The newly appointed manager of the U17 women’s national team has the squad dreaming big.
Selu Lozano, longtime president of the Makati Football Club—one of the country’s most successful grassroots programs, took over the reins of the young Filipinas in August, looking to build more than a winning team.
“The goal is never about just winning; it is to start a movement and build a system that can truly sustain the local football scene in the Philippines,” Lozano messaged the Inquirer. “The vision is to build a national team ready to compete in the 2031 Women’s World Cup—with a healthy balance of homegrown players and top-tier talents from overseas.”
Under Lozano’s guidance, the U17 squad topped Group F in the recent AFC qualifying phase, earning a spot in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) U17 Women’s Asian Cup in China next year. The finish comes at the heels of last year’s second-place qualification. The achievement brings the Philippines closer to the U17 Women’s World Cup.
“Seeing local talent rise alongside the best from abroad is the real win here for this new management,” Lozano said.
Most of the 23 players in the current roster are homegrown, trained in local clubs and academies. In messages to the Inquirer, the players shared how the experience went beyond football.
“Just wearing the flag and representing my country was a dream come true,” said Taylor Tiangco. “Winning all three of our games and qualifying for the AFC was unforgettable. Every match made all the training and sacrifices worth it.”
“The highlight was definitely how quickly we were able to click and play as one team,” striker Chiara Mizzo said. “Everyone gave 100 percent and you could really feel that connection. Winning all our games showed how much heart and teamwork we have.”
Midfielder Louraine Evangelista said the bond built on and off the field was key to their success.
“Our determination and fighting spirit were always there. But what stood out for me was how close we became as a team—especially when we prayed before every match.”
