PH Malditas Football Makes History, Secures Spot at FIFA World Cup

During the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup quarterfinals at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune, India, the Philippines came out on top against Chinese Taipei. At the end of fulltime, both teams were tied at 1-1 which led them to go head-to-head on a penalty shootout.

During the penalties, Chinese Taipei was leading 3-2 until the Taiwanese players missed three consecutive shots. This gave the Philippines an opportunity to finish strong against their opponents, winning with 4-3 after goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel and striker Sarina Bolden converted their attempts.

The Philippines is now set to compete at their first-ever appearance at the AFC Women’s Cup semifinals. Adding to the historic moment, the country also secured their slot at the FIFA World Cup joining 3 other Asian teams consisting of China, South Korea, and defending AFC Cup Champions Japan.

“It’s an unbelievable achievement. It’s a moment of history for the country,” explained Alen Stajcic, head coach of the Malditas. “We’re very proud that we may have inspired the next generation.” This also marks the Philippines’ debut on the FIFA World Cup stage, which is the world’s biggest international football tournament.

“It’s really surreal,” added McDaniel, the squad’s goalkeeper and Player of the Match. “It’s make or break right now. You need to show up for the team.” Both teams started the first half of the match without scoring any goals. During the first few minutes of the second half, midfielder Quinley Quezada opened the scoring for the Philippines. Chinese Taipei, however, was able to equalize the game in the 83rd minute with a goal from midfielder Zhuo Li-Ping.

“We lost composure a little bit early in the game,” admitted coach Stajcic. “But the big picture is the whole journey to get here and win matches to get here.” The AFC Women’s Cup semifinals between the Philippines and South Korea will be on February 3, 4:00 pm Philippine time. Meanwhile, the World Cup is scheduled for July 2023 to be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand.

Sources: CNN PH, Inquirer