Photo: FIFA

By LDC

A continental rivalry takes center stage at the 2025 FIFA Futsal Women's World Cup as South American heavyweights Argentina and Colombia kickstart the quarterfinal phase with a highly anticipated match-up.

Argentina — ranked sixth in the world — topped Group A while eighth-ranked Colombia finished as the runner-up of Group B.

Both nations will square off this Monday at 6 p.m. at the Philsports Arena, and the winner will face either Portugal or Italy in the semifinals on Friday.

Argentina enters the knockout round having beaten the likes of Morocco, Poland and host nation Philippines. Moreover, it became the first country to book its ticket to the last eight after its 3-2 win over the Poles last November 24.

Coach Nicolás Noriega has managed to secure momentum for his side and is focusing on preparations for its South American neighbor.

“And it is a very important step, it was the first goal we had set ourselves, trying to qualify first, so we are very happy that we were able to achieve it,” said Noriega after his side’s 5-1 win over the Philippines last Thursday.

“Well, tomorrow our rivals will be defined in quarters, tomorrow surely rest and train Saturday and Sunday to prepare for Monday, which is the crossing that is coming now, which is the quarterfinal.”

Colombia, meanwhile, is celebrating the experience of reaching the quarterfinals. The Group B runner-up qualified through wins over Canada and Thailand, which offset a 5-1 drubbing at the hands of Spain in between.

Amid a tough group stage run, Colombia coach Robert Bruno emphasized that for his young squad, merely competing in the World Cup is a dream realized, and every subsequent game is an opportunity to learn.

The 55-year-old Bruno sees this tournament as a major benchmark for the future of Colombian women's futsal. He also spoke about the pride the players feel in representing their nation and highlighted that the team, featuring a new generation of players, is focused on creating lasting memories.

“The girls are already fulfilling their dreams in the World Cup,” said Bruno. “They are always thinking that they can keep moving forward. Each game is an experience for us, and obviously grateful for the love they put on the flag on their shirt. I really think that's what makes them fall in love with futsal.”

“Let's live it, it's just one more experience. We get to be in the quarterfinals of a World Cup. A young group that we have brought, a new generation of female Colombian futsal players. And let's hope they continue to play and give more joy.”