A perfect start for the history-makers.
The Philippine women’s football team opened the second round of the AFC Olympic Qualifying Tournament on a very impressive note after defeating Chinese Taipei, 4-1, at the HBF Park in Perth, Australia on Thursday.
The Filipinas dominated 62% of the possession in the first half with a couple of clean chances coming their way. However, they were unable to find the marker.
At least not yet.
Come the second half, Chinese Taipei suddenly sprung back to life, breaking the ice after a goal by Hsu Yi-yun in the 47th minute for a 1-0 lead.
It wouldn’t take long though for the 44th-ranked Filipinas to equalize, as Meryll Serrano was fouled inside the box. It led to a clean penalty kick from star striker Sarina Bolden.
The Mark Torcaso-led squad continued to pounce on the 38th-ranked Chinese Taipei. In the 61st minute, Tahnai Annis slotted in a beautiful through ball for Katrina Guillou, who gave the Philippines the 2-1 advantage.
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Come the 83rd minute, the inimitable Bolden scored her second goal after a deflection from a Chinese Taipei defender freed her up for a wonder strike. Bolden now has 28 goals for the Filipinas.
To put the cherry on top, Chandler McDaniel, who came on as a substitute in the 86th minute, immediately made an impact as she chipped in a beautiful goal.
The win over Chinese Taipei means three points for the Filipinas in Group A and a step closer to advancing to the third round and battle for a ticket for the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Up next for the Philippines will be a heavyweight match against host Australia, the eighth-best team in the world, on Sunday at a much larger Perth Stadium.
Catch it on One Sports, One Sports+, and the Pilipinas Live app.
(PM)