Hali Long joins Brisbane Roar: Philippines' 106-cap defensive anchor set for A-League Women 2026-27

Hali Long has officially joined Brisbane Roar during the transfer window ahead of the 2026-27 A-League Women season. The former Philippines captain is expected to strengthen the defence and bring international composure to the Australian club. Neither the contract length nor the transfer fee has been announced. Long, 31, is a centre-back and one of the most prominent figures in Philippine women's football. She appeared in every match at the 2026 FIFA Women's World Cup, the first World Cup in Philippines history. Long also holds the national team appearance record and frequently wears the captain's armband. Before arriving in Australia, Long played in the Philippines for Kaya-Iloilo. She then moved to Thailand to play for BGC College of Asian Scholars. With that club she won the Thai Women's League without a single defeat and was named the league's best player. Those trophies add to her two Philippine domestic league titles. Her career also includes college soccer in the United States with the Little Rock Trojans at the University of Arkansas. That experience sharpened her physicality and aerial ability. Brisbane Roar head coach Johnathan Clemente has high expectations for the new recruit. Clemente described Long as a strong centre-back, aggressive in duels and ready to put her body on the line. He praised her leadership and aerial presence. This suggests Brisbane Roar did not sign her just for squad depth but intends to use her from the start of the season. Her real impact depends on adaptation to the league's tempo. An important complication is international duty. Long will lead Philippines at the Asian Games in Japan. If the tournament takes place right before the A-League Women season, she may have limited preparation time with her new club. The Brisbane Roar coaching staff will need to manage her fitness. That makes it harder to assess her in pre-season friendlies. Brisbane Roar has not revealed Long's role in the long-term squad plan, but the signing sends a clear signal about the club's ambition to add international experience. A World Cup centre-back gives Brisbane Roar women another quality option against physical opponents. The deal can also strengthen ties with the Filipino community in Australia. For the Philippines national team, this overseas move is another positive sign. Long's presence in a professional league in Australia will help her maintain match fitness and stay in rhythm. The Philippines team needs players with such experience to guide younger generations in regional and continental tournaments. The immediate task for Long is to complete registration and adapt quickly. If all goes well, she could provide solidity for Brisbane Roar in the 2026-27 A-League Women campaign.