Filipinas win first friendly in Europe. –PFF PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine women’s football team dominated Bosnia and Herzegovina, 3-0, on Friday midnight (Manila time) in an international friendly at Terme Catez in Brezice, Slovenia.
Sarina Bolden delivered a brace, while Tara Shelton opened the scoring as the Filipinas earned their first win on European soil.
“Another milestone for this team with our first goals and first win on European soil,” said national team coach Alen Stajcic. “We toiled hard, pressed well as a group, and executed some nice goals.”
Shelton drew the first blood, finding the back of the bet from outside the box just seven minutes into the match.
Bolden double the lead before halftime, scoring in the 38th minute. She capped the victory with her second goal in the 82nd.
Goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel also displayed a tremendous defensive effort, preventing their foes from scoring a goal to bounce back from a 1-0 loss to Ireland last Sunday.
The Filipinas are preparing for the 2022 Asean Football Federation (AFF) Women’s Championship next month.
“Still require improvements in build-up play and possession. But we are working very hard as we progress on the road to the World Cup,” said Stajcic.
The Philippines is slated in Group A of the AFF tournament with Australia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore.