By Jerome S. Galunan, Jr.

The Philippine U13 football team, led by the Negros Occidental Football Association, defeated defending champions China, 3-0, in their opening match of the Soong Ching Ling Cup in Beijing, China.

Bago City’s Earl Siconiegue opened scoring with a penalty and Elijah Zedric of San Carlos City added two.

“Our team did high pressure defense,” said team manager Andrew Infante. “China was a bit surprised with our pressure game.”

The Philippines went on to draw Indonesia, 1-1; and, as of press time, face Cambodia.

“We hope our momentum continues as we look forward to advance [to] the quarterfinals,” said Infante./JSG, WDJ