Futsal World Cup ditches Negros stop
Victorias, Negros Occidental, will no longer serve as the second site of the inaugural Fifa Women’s Futsal World Cup slated Nov. 21 to Dec. 7.
Citing “a comprehensive review of logistical and operational considerations, and in light of ongoing situations,” the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) decided to forego its plans of holding select matches in the city located 34 kilometers north of Bacolod.
Instead, all games starting with those from all four groups will now be played at Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
“The adjustment also reflects Fifa and the LOC’s joint objective to streamline and reduce the tournament’s footprint, ensuring the most efficient delivery of the event,” the PFF explained late Friday.
Fifa had earlier given its nod on Victorias to stage some of the games for the indoor football competition after an ocular inspection a few months ago.
PFF president John Gutierrez had earlier said that the city government was really keen on being the tournament’s cohost.
The change came before a draw ceremony for the World Cup takes place on Monday at Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig.
Representatives from all 16 countries, including the Philippines, are due to take part in the proceedings at BGC Arts Center.
Those that qualified are world No. 1 Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Thailand, Japan, Argentina, Italy, Colombia, Iran, Canada, Morocco, New Zealand, Panama and Tanzania and Poland.
