Deeper Women’s World Cup run would ‘mean a lot’ for PH football growth–Sara Eggesvik

Philippines’ Sara Eggesvik gestures during the Women’s World Cup Group A match between New Zealand and the Philippines in Wellington, New Zealand, Tuesday, July 25, 2023. (AP Photo/John Cowpland)

AUCKLAND, New Zealand—Sara Eggesvik sees the possibility of sending the Philippines to the knockout stage of the Fifa Women’s World Cup as a chance to further the growth of the beautiful game back home.

“That would mean a lot from being like a small football country and this can mean growth,” Eggesvik said as the Filipinas prepare for their crunch Group A match against Norway on Sunday at Eden Park in this city.

“And I hope we can inspire young girls and boys to start playing football and show that it’s possible to do great even if you’re from the Philippines,” added the midfielder.

The Filipinas need a stunning win to secure a dream slot in the round-of-16 against Spain or Japan, the qualifiers from Group C.

Eggesvik and the Philippines can also get a draw coupled with a Switzerland win over New Zealand in their game to be held simultaneously in Dunedin to reach the next stage of women’s football’s ultimate showcase.

It was Eggesvik who helped set up the winning goal of Sarina Bolden 24 minutes into the match held in Wellington.

A wide cross by Eggesvik allowed Bolden to head the historic goal, the first for the country in the Fifa World Cup.

Another historic feat could be in the offing if they can get the job done against the embattled Norwegian side.

“I’m just feeling so grateful and proud of this team of what we had achieved,” she said. “We keep making history. This team is really something special.”