Participation at Women's World Cup a source of pride for UAE's Filipino community

The Philippines football team made history at the Women's World Cup when they beat co-hosts New Zealand in only their second-ever match at a global finals.

It was the Philippines' first victory at either a men's or women's finals.

After losing their opening match to Switzerland, Sarina Bolden's first-half header secured a famous victory and leaves the South-East Asian country with a chance to progress from Group A if they can beat Norway in their final match on Sunday.

While football takes a backseat to basketball in the Philippines, in the UAE, the country's participation at a World Cup has become a huge source of pride for Filipinos.

Around 700,000 Filipinos live in the UAE, which has become home to a growing number of amateur football clubs.

Pinoy FC was founded in Dubai 12 years ago and aims to promote solidarity among Filipinos in the country who share a common love for football. With more than 400 members, Pinoy FC play competitive and social matches and host annual tournaments against clubs from other Asean countries such as Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, Singapore, and China.

In Abu Dhabi, Pinoy FC's sister club, Philippine Football Club, is another dedicated to UAE-based Filipino football enthusiasts and boasts around 100 members.

These social clubs provide a growing platform for the Filipino football diaspora, with many hoping to follow in the footsteps of their 2023 heroes.

Speaking about the Philippines' achievement at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, a Pinoy FC representative said: “This is a historic moment for all Filipinos on our first participation in the world’s most prestigious women’s football event, the World Cup.

Pinoy FC members during training at Star International School in Dubai.