Philippine national team makes history with first women’s World Cup win

by Luisa moRaLes Philstar.com

MANILA — The Philippine women’s national football team won their first match in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup as they nipped co-hosts New Zealand, 1-0, in Group A action at Sky Stadium in Wellington on Tuesday, July 25.

Sarina Bolden made it the dream match for the Filipinas when she headed in a cross from Sara Eggesvik built off a set piece at the 24th minute.

Bolden soared above two Kiwi defenders and put just enough power behind it to get it past the keeper’s gloves, etching her name in Philippine sports history.

The game’s only goal was enough to propel the Filipinas to their first ever win in the Women’s World Cup.

But the home team didn’t give up the win without multiple scoring attempts — particularly in the second half where there were many close calls.

The closest one was Jacqui Hand’s header a little past the hour mark that actually got past Olivia McDaniel, who was a brick wall all throughout.

But after VAR review, the u PAGE 3