With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup less than 12 months away, The Asian Game is excited to announce a new addition to The Asian Game Podcast Network, one that shines a light on the emerging nations aspiring to achieve their dream to qualify for the tournament in Australia next year.
From Dreams to Goals, to be released weekly, is co-hosted by emerging journalists Gina Bagnulo and Anirudh Nair and is the latest The Asian Game Podcast Network, joining our flagship show, The Asian Game Podcast, as well as The ASEAN Game with Ryan Walters.
Each week From Dreams to Goals will focus on delving deep and telling the story of women’s football in countries from Saudi Arabia to India, from Indonesia to Nepal and everywhere in between, talking to players, coaches and journalists to explore the unique story of each country as they drive forward on the road to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026.
Gina Bagnulo is studying her masters in international sports journalism at St Mary’s University, but grew up in Dubai with a deep interest in women’s football.
Having previously been published by The National (UAE), The Telegraph, BBC Sport and Gulf News, she keeps a keen eye on the development of women’s football in Asia, previously interviewing the new UAE coach Vera Puaw, as well as Saudi Arabian excitement machine Bayan Sadagah.
“We were inspired to create the podcast because there is a huge gap when it comes to women’s football and coverage of the sport outside the American and European context,” Bagnulo explained.
“We will address the gap of coverage that exists when it comes to women’s football in Asia and why it’s important that we talk about it.”
Like Bagnulo, Anirudh Nair also grew up in the UAE and is also completing his masters in international sports journalism at St Mary’s University, with his work specialising in both cricket and football published by World Soccer Magazine and the Sports Gazette.
“As an Indian growing up in the UAE, I have witnessed the best of both worlds,” Nair said.
“The stark contrasts of cultures I have seen throughout my upbringing, coming together in this melting pot is a concept that has fascinated me and the stories that come from these cultures always hold a unique and sacred identity.
“This podcast is important to me because of these stories. There are billions of people in Asia, and many of those love football. The sport is special for how it can bring communities together and change lives. But many of these life changing stories go unheard, even more so for the women who love football in Asia, and we want to bring these stories into the spotlight.
“The 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup in Australia is the perfect opportunity for the world to meet the female footballers of Asia, and with this podcast, we want their stories to be heard.”
Be the first to listen to the brand new series From Dreams to Goals.
Listen directly below, or follow the links to your favourite podcast app:
