MOA Arena to stage China vs Chinese Taipei matchup

The Philippines is set to host multiple games in the second window of the 2027 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers, with the Mall of Asia (MOA) Arena in Pasay City named as the venue for a Group B matchup between China and Chinese Taipei on March 1.

Based on the schedule published on the International Basketball Federation (Fiba) website, the China–Chinese Taipei game will be played at the MOA Arena, marking a rare occasion when two foreign national teams compete in an official Fiba qualifier on Philippine soil.

Both China and Chinese Taipei are still searching for their first win in the qualifiers after dropping their opening two games in the first window.

China is scheduled to face Japan in Okinawa prior to its Manila trip, while Chinese Taipei will take on South Korea in New Taipei City before heading to the Philippines.

The China–Chinese Taipei encounter will be part of a March 1 double-header at the Pasay sporting complex, which will also feature a Group A showdown between Gilas Pilipinas and Australia later that evening.

The China–Chinese Taipei game is set to tip off at 4 p.m., followed by the Philippines–Australia clash at 7:30 p.m.

The inclusion of the China–Chinese Taipei game adds significance to the Philippines’ hosting duties during the second window, as Gilas Pilipinas will also be playing on home soil after beginning their qualifying campaign on the road.

Unlike their Group B counterparts, the Philippines have enjoyed a strong start to the World Cup Asian Qualifiers.

Gilas Pilipinas remain unbeaten after sweeping their two-game series against Guam during the opening window, placing them in a favorable position heading into the next round of competition.

Australia, meanwhile, remains one of the tournament favorites and is expected to provide a stern test for the Philippine national team when they meet at the MOA Arena.

The March 1 matchup will be one of the most anticipated games of the second window, given Australia’s consistent dominance in the Asian region.

The hosting of a double-header featuring three Asian basketball powers underscores the Philippines’ continued role as a key venue for international basketball events.

MOA Arena has previously staged high-profile local and international games, including Fiba tournaments and regional competitions.

Further details on ticketing, game-day arrangements, and team lineups are expected to be announced closer to the March fixtures, as the second window of the 2027 Fiba World Cup Asian Qualifiers approaches.