AFC Women's Asian Cup - Cesar a team player for the Philippines

Sydney: Malea Cesar may not have tasted action at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ yet but that is not stopping the defender from giving her best to the Philippines.

Now 21 years of age, Cesar was in the thick of the action at India 2022 where she was substituted into the games three times, started one match and scored a goal as she helped Philippines to a historic semi-final appearance and a FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 spot.

Under head coach Mark Torcaso, the opportunity has been harder to come by and she was an unused substitute in all three of Philippines’ Group A matches but that hasn’t dampened her spirit and desire to be the best version of herself.

“That’s always part of the game and national team where the circumstances are never the same,” said Cesar. “My goal as a teammate is to be the best player on and off the pitch, supporting my teammates in all areas.

“I try to always do my best to make sure I can challenge the first team and help them be better.”

Playing her club football with the Trinity University Texas in the United States, Cesar knows the huge task that awaits Philippines in their quarter-final tie against Japan on Sunday, with qualification to next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup a reward for the winners.

“Personally as a player, what more can you ask than to play on one of the best teams in the world, not only in Asia. Us girls are ready to go out there and prove to everyone that we deserve to be here.

“This tournament has taught us a lot and we are continuing to improve to ensure that we reach our goal of making it to the World Cup.”

Cesar a team player for the Philippines

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