Filipinas goal keeper Inna Palacios. @PilipinasWNFT
MANILA, Philippines — Inna Palacios had a very special 50th game with the Philippine women’s football team.
Palacios, the back-up of goal keeper Olivia McDaniel, started for the Filipinas as they blasted Singapore, 7-0, in the AFF Women’s Championship on Wednesday evening at Rizal Memorial Stadium.
The La Salle standout relished her 50th cap at home in front of their fans.
“It’s been a long time coming. I’m just super thankful and honored to always represent the country and to have my 50th here at home, it means so much more,” said Palacios in the team’s video interview.
Coach Alen Stajcic rested McDaniel and fielded Palacios, who helped the national team earn its second win in Group A following a 1-0 victory over Australia last Monday.
The veteran goalie is honored to be still part of the women’s football program, which has been making history this year after booking its first-ever ticket to the FIFA Women’s World Cup next year and winning a bronze medal in the 31st Southeast Asian Games.
The Filipinas, who have six points in Group A, are eyeing to continue their breakout year in the AFF tournament as they face Malaysia next on Friday.
Palacios is confident that her team has what it takes to become successful in the regional championship.
“We always work to get better as an individual and as a group so we all keep that growth mindset then I’m sure we can really go far as a team,” she said.