Reporting note: this article draws on tiebreakertimes.com.ph; Score808 Live provides the summary and editorial framing.
Alen Stajcic Appointed Philippine Girls U-17 Head Coach
Alen Stajcic has officially returned to Philippine international football. The 52-year-old Australian tactician has been appointed head coach of the Philippine Girls U-17 National Team as the program gears up for the upcoming qualification campaign for the 2027 AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup.
The announcement confirms Stajcic's return to the national setup more than three years after concluding his landmark stint with the senior women's national team and returning to domestic management in Australia.
Immediate Qualification Schedule in Tashkent
Stajcic faces an immediate competitive window with the youth squad, taking charge of crucial group fixtures set to take place in Tashkent, Uzbekistan:
- October 5: Philippines vs. Uzbekistan
- October 8: Philippines vs. Bangladesh
Securing positive results in these fixtures will be vital for the Philippines' pathway and qualification seeding toward the 2027 continental finals.
Context and International Pedigree
Stajcic brings substantial international tournament experience back to the Philippine Football Federation's youth pipeline. During his previous tenure with the senior women's national team (the Filipinas), Stajcic guided the side through historic milestones, including their maiden qualification and appearance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, and capturing the 2022 AFF Women’s Championship title.
His broader resume also includes leading the Australia women's national team across major cycles, including the 2016 Rio Olympics and continental competitions. His return at the U-17 level represents a targeted effort to reinforce tactical structure and tournament preparation at the foundational tier of the women's national program.
