Facing tall odds, U17 girls take inspiration from Filipinas

Savannah Chheng (right) and Ava Garcia in action against South Korea. —PH U17 PHOTO

It wasn’t just for the chance to compete in a major tournament; that was the bonus.

The real prize for members of the national U17 women’s team, after enduring so many sacrifices, was the right to wear the Philippine colors.

“Wearing the Philippine jersey at this level means a lot to me because I’m representing a nation and that is a really big deal,” midfielder Savannah Chheng said.

The national U17 women’s team is currently competing in the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup in China, where the young booters hope to book a ticket to the World Cup—and that is not an easy task.

Getting out of the group stage will take a lot of work as the Philippines is bracketed with 2024 champion North Korea, 2024 bronze medalist South Korea and Chinese-Taipei. The Philippines has already lost to South Korea and is locked in a duel against North Korea at press time.

The only realistic way out of the group stage is to finish as one of the two best third-placed teams in the group stage.

Strong bond

It’s not the easiest path, but the team is counting on its chemistry to pull them through.

“We have a strong bond and genuinely support each other,” goalkeeper Brooke Solis said. “That connection makes us stronger on the pitch.”

To qualify for the U17 Women’s World Cup, the Philippines will have to win its quarterfinal match, which could be against either North Korea or host China. With the odds against them, some members of the squad are taking inspiration from its senior counterpart, the Filipinas, who qualified for a second straight Women’s World Cup appearance.

“Their ability to qualify for the World Cup despite many people not believing or trusting in them is what inspires me,” said forward Ava Garcia.

“After the senior women’s national team qualified for the World Cup, I was motivated to do the same and make history,” forward Ari Enderes said.

And as difficult as the road may be, the team isn’t lacking in belief.

[I]f we work hard enough together, stay focused, and support each other, reaching the World Cup is truly achievable.” Maeva Javier, a defender, said. “It’s about dedication, teamwork and never giving up on our dreams.”