The Philippine Women’s National Team left it late to claim a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Nepal to put them on the cusp of qualifying to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022 last Saturday 18 September 2021 at JAR Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
A goal down with only minutes remaining in regulation, Tahnai Annis and Camille Wilson scored the vital goals in the 90th and 92nd minutes to lift the Philippines over Nepal and claim the much needed three points in Group F.
Despite the win, the Philippines had to endure almost 80 minutes a goal behind after Bimala Chaudhary found the back of the net in the 10th minute.
Nepal’s goal did not dampen the Philippines as they pressed on for the goal. Annis was close in the succeeding minutes but was unable to get a touch on the ball.
Going to the stoppage time, the Philippines held their resolve in the search for an equalizer and found it as the clock reached the 90th minute. The debuting Chandler McDaniel latched on an inviting cross from the right flank and found the on-rushing Annis free in the box, who sent it to the back of the net to give the Philippines a deserved lifeline.
With time remaining on the clock, the Philippines went on in search for a winner. Camille Rodriguez sent a cross for McDaniel, who had enough touch with her to send it to the patch of Wilson to pounce on the winner.
Head coach Marlon Maro was elated on the win which puts the country a step closer to qualification.
“The new players played well and initiated the first goal,” said Maro. “Our adjustments in the second half resulted in us scoring in the last five minutes.”
The Philippines next face Hong Kong on Friday, 24 September 2021 at the same venue for a chance to clinch qualification to the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022.
The Philippine Women’s National Team is supported by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC), MVP Sports Foundation, and Team Manager Jefferson Cheng.
Photo: AFC