MANILA, Philippines — The clock struck midnight on a spirited Philippines squad, which settled for a runner-up finish in the girls’ division of the Street Child World Cup in Rio de Janeiro.
The Filipinos dropped a 1-0 loss to host Brazil Sunday in a tense final played on a pitch under the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue.
Still, it was the best finish by any PH squad in the tournament. Coached by British volunteer Roy Moore, the team is made up of children from Payatas, SOS Village Davao, Mango Tree House, Juvie Lynn of Kids International Ministries and Gawad Kalinga.
“It’s been great for the girls on and off the pitch,” said Moore.
“They’ve had experiences they will keep forever, and will use to help them make their next step in life.”
The girls’ squad started its campaign with a 9-0 rout of South Africa last Tuesday, followed by a 6-0 victory over England.
The PH girls overcame Mozambique, 1-0, on Saturday to reach the finals against Brazil, which also came into the match unbeaten.
The PH boys’ team was eliminated in the quarterfinals but is the only team that defeated eventual champion Tanzania.