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It was an emotional roller coaster for Dionesa Tolentin. She was gutted to miss out on the Philippines squad for their first FIFA Women’s World Cup™, but was proud as punch with their performances Down Under. Olivia McDaniel, Hali Long and Co gave Noelle Maritz, Lia Walti, Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic, Ramona Bachmann and Switzerland a strict examination in their opener, before Sarina Bolden headlined a stunning upset of co-hosts New Zealand.
“I really wanted to be part of that squad because it was my dream,” Tolentin told FIFA. “But I knew in myself there were still a lot of things to improve before getting called up. I was so happy and proud of what the team did. Even though I wasn’t part of the squad, I was still part of it in some way because I was in the Filipinas pool and played for them in 2019.”
Tolentin targeted playing in the global finals in 2027. She is set to do it sooner – and in front of her own people. Philippines will have the honour of hosting the first FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup™, and when it was announced they were holding try-outs for players last December, the Zamboanga del Norte native, who had already played the sport, gave it a shot.
The following month Tolentin made her Filipina5 debut in AFC Women’s Futsal Asian Cup qualification, scoring in a 4-1 win over Kuwait.
“At that time, that was truly my personal goal,” said the 25-year-old. “I was incredibly eager to score because I really wanted to score for my country. I was so happy when I did.”
Tolentin now has new targets. She wants to score at the World Cup, help inspire young Filipina futsal players, and help Rafa Merino’s side succeed. They have Poland, Morocco and Argentina for company in Group A.
“This is definitely a tough but challenging group, but we’ll work and train hard to show what we’re capable of,” said Tolentin. “This Filipina team may be new, but we have the grit and eagerness to learn new things every day. We have been training every day for the past months, and we’re ready to take on this new challenge and to represent our country.
“Our goal is to win. We want to perform well, show that we may be new, but we have got something to prove. Hopefully our performances can inspire young girls who have hopes of becoming futsal players. Now there is a world stage for them. They can work towards this goal too.”
One girl Tolentin believes will be fundamental to Filipina hopes is Isabella Flanigan. The forward impressed as an 18-year-old at Australia & New Zealand 2023, and is also outstanding on courts.
“Everyone can have a big impact, and I trust them all, but I will highlight Bella Flanigan,” said Tolentin when asked which of Merino’s charges she expects to make the biggest impact. “That’s because she plays so smart, she has such a huge impact on the team, and she inspires me too.”
Philippines will kick off their campaign in less than seven weeks. Poland will provide the historic occasion’s opposition amid what is guaranteed to be an electrifying atmosphere at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City, Metropolitan Manila.
“As a Filipina, it would be such an honour to walk out in our national colours and hear our anthem at the World Cup,” said Tolentin. “The pressure is there, but it’s truly a privilege to play while carrying my country’s flag.
“I know it’s a moment bigger than myself. It’s for my family, for every Filipino who dreams, and for our country. I’ll carry that pride with humility and give my very best on the court.”
Tolentin is certain tourists touching down on the paradisiacal archipelago will be thrilled.
“The Philippines is known for being hospitable,” she explained. “We have a very friendly culture, and I hope our visitors get to experience this. Also, they should try our food! They will definitely enjoy some of our cuisines.”
