Philippines’ Dream Run in FIFA Women’s World Cup Ends with Defeat Against Norway
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – The Philippine women’s football team’s historic journey in the FIFA Women’s World Cup came to a crushing end on Sunday at Auckland’s Eden Park. The Filipinas suffered a stinging 6-0 defeat against Norway in Group A, but their performance throughout the tournament was nothing short of remarkable.
The team’s co-captain and defender, Hali Long, expressed her emotions after the match, stating, “It was an incredible ride. There were so many firsts for us in this tournament, our first goal, our first win, our first game. You can’t take it away from us. I couldn’t be more proud of the effort we gave.”
Long, the longest-tenured member of the Philippine women’s team, reflected on the journey she and her teammates had taken. From trying to become relevant in Southeast Asia to proving they could compete against some of the best women’s football nations, they showed immense progress and growth.
Before the final game, Long shed tears while singing the national anthem, displaying her love and dedication to representing her country. “It’s the pride and honor you have, to represent your country everywhere on the global stage… It’s just the definite highlight of my life,” Long said emotionally.
The Philippines’ coach, Alen Stajcic, played a crucial role in the team’s incredible rise since his appointment in late-2021. The Filipinas came into the tournament not only aiming to participate but also to showcase their capability against any team. However, the defeat against Norway highlighted the need for further improvement in order to return to this stage in the next World Cup.
Despite the loss, the players remain optimistic about the future. Sarina Bolden, who scored a historic goal against New Zealand, expressed her eagerness for the next World Cup, stating, “I have no doubt in my mind that we’ll be able to be a better team for it. We need to continue what we’ve been doing, learn from this, and grow from it.”
While the team’s World Cup journey may have come to an end, their hope is to inspire young Filipino boys and girls to pursue their dreams in football. Goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel expressed the desire to grow the sport in the Philippines, saying, “We want to make sure we grow this game enough for them, that it is available to them, and they can be able to be in our shoes one day.”
The Filipinas’ journey in the FIFA Women’s World Cup has captured the hearts of many Filipino fans around the world. Their determination and resilience have set a new benchmark for women’s football in the Philippines, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
