The U17 Philippine Women’s National Football Team (PWNT) opened their AFC U17 Women’s Asian Cup campaign with an impressive win, defeating host Indonesia, 6-1.
“We congratulate the u17 Philippine Women’s Team on an impressive start in their campaign. Seeing the team play victoriously on their opening game against the host nation brings much hope and inspiration for many young Filipina footballers aspiring to play for flag and country someday,” said PFF President John Gutierrez.
Attacking midfielder Alexa Pino made a difference in the first half, scoring a brace for a 4-1 start.
Pino started with a header off a Jael Guy right cross in the 7th minute, followed by a power shot in the 36th minute against three defenders.
Guy, for her part, scored off the long ball in the 22nd minute to break the deadlock after a 40-yard Hail Mary from Claudia Scheunemann in the 12th minute for Indonesia’s lone goal.
Skipper Ariana Markey then padded the lead with a long shot from the penalty area’s right flank in the 29th minute that bounced toward the goal
Forward Nat Collins finished the job for the Filipinas with a second half brace in the 54th and 62nd minute, both assisted by substitute playmaker Sophia Saludares.
The young Filipinas will next face group favorite Korea DPR (North Korea) on Thursday.
“I enjoin all Filipino football fans to keep supporting the PWNT U-17 as they continue their Asian Cup campaign,” added Gutierrez.