The squad is set to travel to Singapore for the first round of the AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, scheduled from Oct. 13 to 17.
Drawn into the challenging Group E, the young NMI team will face regional powerhouse Australia and host nation Singapore in their bid to secure a historic spot in the continental finals. NMI will open against Australia on Oct. 13 at 9:30 p.m., followed by their second match against Singapore on Oct. 15 at the same time.
NMIFA President Jerry Tan and General Secretary Merlie Tolentino, in their remarks at the send-off, underscored the importance of exposing the Commonwealth’s young players to international-level competition. They said the tournament provides an invaluable chance for the team to measure its progress and gain crucial experience against established football nations. For the majority of the players, this will be their first appearance in an AFC tournament.
The NMI U17 Women’s National Soccer Team roster includes Hailey Benavente, Aira Daca, Jade Pascual, Christina Napitan, Orica George, Alyssa Borlongan, Ye Lynn Ha, Iris Rasa, Cassidee Flores, Aubrey White, Jacqueline Cepeda, Miley Mafnas, Stacy Arriola, Angel Calayag, Alyssa Brassuell, Elyza Brillo, Kaye Anne Costales, and Va’aina Reyes.
The team is led by head coach Luam Khen Koo, assistant coach Ronnel Ocanada, Mae Ito, team manager Bernadette Horey, assistant team manager Yu Hung Lee, and team physiotherapist Hazel Mabasa.
Team captain Alyssa Borlongan and Aubrey White closed the ceremony with a message of gratitude. “We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to the NMIFA, our coaches, the community, and our parents for their dedication and support,” they said.
