HISOR, Tajikistan – The Philippines overwhelmed Pakistan, 4-0, last Wednesday night to get its AFC Women’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament campaign off to a winning start at Hisor Central Stadium here.
The Filipinas leaned on goals from Hali Long, Sarina Bolden, Eva Madarang, and the returning Chandler McDaniel as they secured maximum points in their group where only the top team will advance to the next round.
Playing her 70th game for the Philippines, Long headed home a Sarina Bolden cross in the 22nd minute, before Bolden also got on the scoresheet with another free header off Madarang’s cross three minutes later.
Returning to the country where she made her first appearance for the Philippines, Madarang fired an unstoppable effort four minutes later as the Filipinas continued their onslaught.
McDaniel came on in the 62nd minute and found the back of the net five minutes from time, collecting a through ball from Quinley Quezda before firing low past Pakistan keeper Rumaysa Jihad Khan.
Filipinas coach Alen Stajcic believes there is plenty of room for improvement for his squad that is also preparing for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in July.
The Filipinas take on Tajikistan on Saturday before wrapping up their campaign against Hong Kong on Tuesday.
Only the top team in the group will qualify to the next round.