By ADRIAN STEWART CO 

Sarina Bolden delivered the Filipinas’ maiden goal on the world stage as they pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over host New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the Wellington Regional Stadium yesterday afternoon.

The Filipina-American midfielder knocked down a header in the 23rd minute as the Philippine women’s football team moved up to third place in Group A standings with three points on one win and a loss.

From a free kick, Filipinas’ Sara Eggsvik kicked the ball in the direction of Bolden. They jumped on two New Zealand defenders to knock the ball, which sailed past the hands of the Kiwi goal keeper.

Bolden’s goal was historic in nature as it was the country’s first-ever conversion in the World Cup and was also the national team’s maiden win in their first-ever appearance on the world stage.

However, it was not only Bolden who can be credited for the historic win by the Filipinas as goal keeper. Olivia McDaniel also provided numerous saves in the second half that preserved the slim lead.

McDaniel’s defense on the goal was tested by New Zealand several times in the second half, including one connection late in the game that could have tied the contest if it had not deflected.

Luck was also not on the side of the home team in the match as Jacqui Hand’s 65th-minute header was disallowed by the officials following a review of the video assistance referee.

The Filipinas also had a chance to double the advantage late in the game, as the connection of Dominique Randle was not allowed after one of her teammates was ruled offside.

The Alen Stajcic-mentored national women’s football team will next face Norway on Sunday, July 30, at 3:00 p.m. (Philippine time), for a chance to reach the round-of-16.

Only the top two teams for each group will move on to the knockout round. Switzerland, the Filipinas and New Zealand are currently tied with three points apiece./ASC, WDJ