In a high-stakes final round match in Group A of the Asian Cup, the Filipinas displayed their attacking qualities to secure a 2-0 win against a gallant Iranian side.
Both teams knew a win would be the only way they could make it through to a potential quarter-final spot. A vocal Filipino crowd attended the match at the Gold Coast Stadium and witnessed the Filipinas score their first two goals of the tournament.
Head Coach Mark Torcaso made four changes to the Filipina side that lost to Korea Republic 3-0 on Thursday at the same venue. Knowing that goals and a win were critical to their chances of progressing, the inclusion of star midfielder Sawicki was a welcome return after missing the previous match through injury. Sawicki’s presence in the midfield ensured the Filipinas played with far more attacking intent and control. Sawicki noted that she was “trying to play as forward as possible”, which is a very different approach to the Filipina’s first two matches, where the aim was to defend and concede as few goals as possible.
The first goal was scored by Eggesvik in the 29th minute after a headed cross into the box caused some confusion in the Iranian defence, with their centre backs completely missing the ball. Eggesvik was in the right spot in the box with the ball beautifully controlled on her left foot and then took the shot with her right foot past the Iranian keeper to give the Filipinas a 1-0 lead. The goal was originally disallowed; however, after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) check, the on-field referee changed the decision, much to the elation of the Filipina team, their staff and supporters.
The second half continued with the same attacking intent as the first half. The Filipinas had 20 shots on target, and it was only a matter of time before that pressure turned into another goal. This time it was the substitute Chandler McDaniel who weaved around the defence in the 82nd minute to give the Filipinas a deserved 2-0 lead.
Searching for more goals to get a better goals difference, youngster Markey was very unlucky to have her long-range shot hit the underside of the crossbar in the 85th minute. It just seemed like one of those nights where the score could have easily been much higher had the Filipinas had more luck on their side.
Coach Mark Torcaso, after the match, was happy with the performance; however, knows the team’s fate is in the hands of the final two matches of Group C. The Filipinas are hoping that Japan defeat Vietnam on Tuesday night by at least 3 goals to ensure passage to the quarter finals and a qualifying playoff spot for direct entry to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil next year.
