PFF officials offered their sincere thanks and appreciation to Philippine Women’s National Team head coach Alen Stajcic, after he and assistant coach Coach Nahuel Arrarte decided to explore other options upon the conclusion of the Philippines’ campaign in the 2023 World Cup.
Under Coach Stajcic, the Filipinas transitioned to serious contenders underscored by the team’s qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™ last January 2022. The Filipinas went on to achieve other historic moments when the team clinched bronze medal in the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Vietnam in May 2022 and won the AFF Women’s Championship in July 2022.
More history were written by the Filipinas, emphasized by the country’s first goal to notch its first-ever win at the World Cup against New Zealand last 25 July 2023.
PFF president Mariano Araneta said: “Coach Alen Stajcic’s appointment as Philippine Women’s National Team head coach brought women’s football in the Philippines to new heights and hope. Under his tutelage, the Filipinas dared to break the glass ceiling, beginning with their qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, clinching the country’s first bronze medal in the SEA Games, winning the AFF Women’s Championship, facing higher-ranked opposition, and most importantly leading the Philippines to its first World Cup appearance and first World Cup win against hosts New Zealand. Indeed, Coach Alen showed full dedication to hone the Filipinas into a fighting team. He will long be remembered as the coach who trained and dared the team to win at any international competition. Maraming salamat, Coach Alen.”
PFF general secretary Atty. Edwin Gastanes added: “The federation and the Philippine Women’s National Team are pleased to have Coach Alen Stajcic as mentor, coach, and trainer of the team. He came at a time when opportunities beckoned and he delivered, showing that the Filipinas has the potential to do well in international competitions. His journey with the team was successful, resulting in World Cup qualification and having the first goal and win in its maiden World Cup campaign. We thank Coach Alen for his outstanding services rendered. His legacy as PWNT coach will be in the annals of Philippine football history. We join a grateful Filipino fans and supporters alike in saying – Thank you very much Coach!”
