Stars react to Philippines 2025 draw

Group A: Philippines, Poland, Morocco, Argentina
Group B: Spain, Thailand, Colombia, Canada
Group C: Portugal, Tanzania, Japan, New Zealand
Group D: Brazil, IR Iran, Italy, Panama

“The group draw looks fairly favourable for us, but we have to remember this is the World Cup – only the strongest national teams are here, and there will be no easy matches. We’re preparing for fierce battles on the court, where every detail and every moment of focus can decide the outcome. As a team, we want to present ourselves in the best possible way, to show the progress of Polish futsal and the character we bring into every game. Argentina come in as the clear favourites, given their history and quality, but that only motivates us more. Our ambition is clear: we want to fight to advance from the group and prove that Poland deserves its place among the best in the world.”
Kasia Wlodarczyk, Poland player

“Firstly, I’m very happy to see our country represented in a Women’s World Cup. Despite favouritism, I think every team will go to this World Cup with high expectations. Our group isn’t the toughest, but I knew we won’t have an easy game. It’s the first World Cup and we’re all going to fight to get as far as possible.”
Becha Nunez, Argentina player

“In our group, there are well-prepared teams with a lot of talent. It’s not going to be easy. We are working hard and well to know how to approach each match in the best way possible. The excitement is enormous. The desire as well. But we know that the small details and playing as a team will be essential.”
Irene Samper, Spain player

“Falcao put us in a hard spot, didn’t he? (laughs) But this is the World Cup. There are no easy paths. We are excited for the challenge. We are here to compete against the best. My biggest task now is to push my players with a winner’s mindset. We must prepare them to go through the group stage without being scared about the reputation of our opponents. I want them to step onto that court and play their beautiful game. To have fun. This is a historic moment for them and for Thai futsal. My message to them is clear: believe in your ability, enjoy this incredible experience, and show the world our potential. We will be ready.”
Thanatorn Santanaprasit, Thailand coach

“I was very excited to watch the draw ceremony and to finally know the composition of the four groups of this World Cup. I was awake at 5am to watch it live! The four groups are definitely very interesting. I think that Group B, in which we were drawn, is the most unpredictable group. The four teams have the potential to earn the top two spots. However, I am very confident about our team and I truly believe we can earn our place in the knockout stage. I can’t wait to be in the Philippines and to start the tournament!”
Esther Brossard, Canada player

“I think it was a decent draw for Portugal. Along with Japan, we’re the group favourites, but we shouldn’t underestimate New Zealand and Tanzania. The goal will always be to win all three matches and finish first.”
Ana Catarina Pereira, Portugal player

“Getting drawn into Group C with Portugal, Japan, and Tanzania is an exciting chance to test ourselves against some of the best, but also to put our best foot forward and show what we can do on the world stage. Every game will have its own challenges, but I’m looking forward to seeing what we can achieve.”
Hannah Kraakman, New Zealand player

“I won’t lie: I had butterflies in my stomach when the draw was made. We know that the World Cup brings together the best teams, and being among them is already a privilege. We respect each opponent because they’ve all worked hard to get to this point. Our focus is to play with humility. There’s no easy game in a World Cup. We will go on to the court with respect, but also with our hearts full of commitment because we represent a great nation. The beauty of sport lies precisely in this: different countries, cultures and styles collide, and everyone has the chance to showcase their greatness. I’m so happy for this moment that is magical and unique for everyone.”
Emilly, Brazil player

“It’s a tough group, but we want to do our best and show the world our strength. Brazil are also the best team in the world right now and we have a very difficult game against them, but I’m happy that we’re going to play against such a good team.”
Maral Torkaman, IR Iran player

“We know it won’t be an easy group but in a World Cup, there’s no easy path. We know we have high-level teams to face, but this only makes us more focused and concentrated on our work. I expect three great matches because everyone will give 110 per cent because, in competitions like this, there are no easy results or guaranteed victories.”
Ludovica Coppari, Italy player