Philippines Women's Legendary Captain Lang Joins Brisbane, Begins New AFLW Journey

Flagship figure of the Philippines women's national team Harley Lang has officially been announced as a new signing for Brisbane Roar, where she will compete in the Australian Women's National Soccer League (AFLW) in the new season. The 31-year-old defensive core holds the record for most appearances for the Philippines women's national team with 106 caps. During last year's Women's World Cup, she made all three group stage appearances against Switzerland, New Zealand, and Norway. In a match in Wellington, the team defeated one of the co-hosts, marking the Philippines' first-ever victory at a World Cup.

At this year's SEA Games, Lang reached the milestone of her 100th national team cap. She is now set to lead the team to Japan in preparation for the upcoming Asian Games.

The club's official website published Lang's signing statement: "I am thrilled to embrace this new challenge on an overseas stage. I will give everything I have and contribute to the club's established targets for this season. I look forward to joining my teammates as soon as possible and fully immersing myself in the training rhythm."

Head coach Jon Clements praised the new signing's value on the pitch, saying that Lang's leadership abilities and defensive intensity will be vital assets for the team. "Harley is a pure defender. She is always eager to make tackles and win aerial duels in every defensive contest. Giving everything for Brisbane is her trademark. As a captain with 106 international caps, she is an icon of Philippine football and a true legend of the game."

Looking back at Lang's career trajectory, she first honed her skills with the Little Rock Trojans at the University of Arkansas in the United States. She then returned to the Philippines to join Ceres FC, where she won the league championship twice. Her career subsequently took her to Thailand, where she joined BGC Academy. This season, she led BGC to the Thai Women's League title on an unbeaten run, while also earning the Most Valuable Player award. Additionally, she has represented both Ceres and BGC in the AFC Women's Champions League.