Ex Villa Player interested in playing for Belgium

ITV News

11-07-2025

Former Aston Villa Women's player Maz Pacheco has told ITV News Central that she would be prepared to represent Belgium at international level.
Currently without a club, Pacheco is hoping to play next season in the Women's Super League having been with Villa since 2021.
Pacheco has played for England at youth level but opted to play for the Philippines, however, passport issues have meant a delay- and a desire to play international football means Pacheco is willing to explore other options.
She could potentially qualify to play for Belgium through her mum, who is a citizen, however, it's thought that the Belgian F.A. aren't yet aware of her eligibility.
Belgium did qualify for the European Championships but sit bottom of Group B.
Miri Taylor and Maz Pacheco, praised Hannah Hampton, who is part of this year's England women's squad in the 2025 Euros.
Miri Taylor, Maz Pacheco and Missy Bo Kearns are out in Switzerland at the moment supporting the Lionesses at the Euros and taking on a challenge to see as many games and as many WSL players as possible to encourage the further growth of women's football.
They've now clocked over sixty players from the league during their time at the tournament.
' She is an incredible role model for young girls'
Pacheco and Taylor both played with England No. 1 Hannah Hampton at youth level, whilst the Birmingham born keeper was also Pacheco's team mate at Villa for a time.
Both players praised her ability on the ball and that she is deserving of her place.
Hampton had a standout second game against the Netherlands and her defence splitting, long range pass was the catalyst for the Lionesses first goal.
Both Taylor and Pacheco identified Hampton's ability with her feet as one of the reasons why she is so good.
Meanwhile, Missy Bo Kearns said that it was hard to be left out of the final England squad for the tournament.
The Villa midfielder was on the stand by list and spent time with the squad before they left, but is now supporting the players saying she wanted every success for the side.
All three players say that watching the tournament has inspired them to put themselves in the frame in future international squads and tournaments.