The Philippines’ first Women’s World Cup victory “has to be one of the biggest wins in the history of sport in the country”, says manager Alen Stajcic.
Sarina Bolden’s early header shocked co-hosts New Zealand, who missed a golden opportunity to edge closer to the knockout stages in Wellington, but it was a brilliant result for debutants the Philippines.
“How can you top beating a host nation at a World Cup? It’s number one,” said Stajcic.
“It was very emotional out on the pitch, seeing just about everyone crying. It’s unbelievable. When you hear stories of other teams needing so long to win World Cup matches… We have done it in our second match in our first World Cup.
“You can’t really appreciate how far back in the pack we have come compared to these teams. The unity, work rate and heart from the team was special.
“I don’t know if there’s been a bigger win for Philippines’ sport. It has to be one of the biggest wins in the history of the country.”
Global success has come the way of the Philippines thanks to superstar boxer Manny Pacquiao, but at this World Cup new sporting heroes are emerging.
The Philippines players celebrated passionately at full-time as substitutes and staff sprinted onto the pitch with many holding their heads in their hands in disbelief.
Credit: bbc.com
