Fil-Am striker Janae De Fazio assisted on a goal in her first-ever cap for the Philippine women’s national football team.
Filipino-American Janae De Fazio made her highly-anticipated debut for the Philippine women’s national football team on Saturday, October 26, helping the Filipinas to a 3-nil drubbing of Jordan in their opening game of Pink Ladies Week in Turkiye.
In the opening minutes, De Fazio immediately made her presence felt as she assisted on Sarina Bolden’s header in the 2nd minute to pull the Filipinas ahead early, 1-nil.
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Being among the biggest names in the Filipinas camp after her short stint with NWSL side Kansas City Current earlier this year, De Fazio raved about being able to represent her home country.
“Yes, I mean, ever since beginning this whole process, oh wow, ever since beginning this whole process, it's just meant a lot for me and for my family, and just knowing that I have their support, and just being connected to all these girls, it feels really cool, and so finally being on this team, it feels really amazing,” said De Fazio.
In her first cap for the national team, the 23-year-old showed her potential as she was pivotal in creating chances for goals in the victory.
But even as the Filipinas had a 3-nil win, there’s more to come as they have another game slated against Kenya.
“Yeah, I think we just need to continue to grow and build off of this game, and stay focused, and I'm feeling really confident in this team.” she said.
Apart from having a stint with the KC Current, she’s currently signed on with Portugal side Racing Power FC.
During her college days with UCLA, De Fazio also won a national championship back in 2022.
With a decorated resume such as herself, De Fazio is expected to create even more of an impact for the Filipinas.
De Fazio and the rest of the Philippine national team return to action in Turkiye against Kenya on Wednesday, October 30. Kick off is at 9 p.m., Manila time.