Rocket Ritarita, a 19‑year‑old forward who honed his craft at the University of Maryland, has earned a place on the Philippines national squad for the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup. The call‑up comes after a freshman season in which he contributed four goals and six assists, earning Big Ten All‑Freshman honors and catching the eye of national team selectors.
A Freshman Season to Remember
During his debut year with the Terrapins, Ritarita combined technical flair with intelligent movement, quickly adapting to the collegiate pace. His four goals and six assists not only helped Maryland secure key victories but also signaled a promising future for a player who balances academic commitments with international duty.
The Philippines coaching staff highlighted his versatility and work ethic when announcing the roster. Ritarita, who holds Filipino heritage through his family, expressed pride in the selection and emphasized his commitment to translating club form into national team impact.
July 28 Showdown with Myanmar
The tournament kicks off on July 28 with a highly anticipated match against Myanmar. Ritarita will be looking to inject fresh attacking energy into a Philippine side eager to make a deep run. He noted that the opening game sets the tone for the entire competition and that the team is focused on executing their game plan with discipline.
Beyond the immediate fixture, Ritarita sees the ASEAN Hyundai Cup as an opportunity to showcase the talent emerging from U.S. college soccer and to inspire younger players back home. He remains determined to blend his Maryland training with the flair and passion associated with Filipino football.