PH at the center of futsal’s global growth

Fifa sees the inaugural Futsal Women’s World Cup that will be staged in the country later this year as a springboard for the further growth of football’s indoor version.

“This tournament will be a defining moment for the women’s game, bringing together the best national teams in the world from all six confederations to showcase their talent and inspire future generations,” Sarai Bareman, Fifa’s chief women’s football officer said on Tuesday.

Bareman and other Fifa officials were in town for the kickoff launch that also introduced the logo for the competition slated Nov. 21 to Dec. 7 at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City and Victorias City in Negros Occidental.

Sixteen countries will take part in the first Futsal Women’s World Cup, with the Philippines seeded as host and New Zealand already through by way of the Oceania Futsal Women’s Nations Cup last year.

Four teams from Europe are going to be assured of securing spots by the conclusion of the UEFA qualifiers this weekend, while three South America spots are at stake in next week’s Copa America.

The rest of the qualifiers will be held next month or in May, with the Asian Cup (three spots), Concacaf Women’s Futsal Championship (two) and Africa Cup of Nations (two).

The Philippines is looking to make a strong impression in the competition and build on the impressive run in the Asian Cup Qualifiers in Uzbekistan.