Filipinas players, coach react to historic FIFA World Cup win
As history was made after the Philippines secured its first win during the FIFA Women’s World Cup match at the Sky Stadium in Wellington on July 25, the players of the Filipinas couldn't be happier to achieve the hard-earned feat.
The victory came after striker Sarina Bolden made the country's historic first goal in the 24th minute, allowing them to against co-host New Zealand with a 1-0 score.
In an Instagram story, goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel was smiling ear to ear as she shared the good news with her followers.
"We just won our first match! I couldn't have been happier with the team play, to keep us in at the last minute. We're just so happy and we can't wait to go for the next one so stay with us, keep us in your prayers, and let's go get them!" she gushed with excitement.
McDaniel had been essential to the win because of her numerous saves against New Zealand and keeping a clean sheet, and she was subsequently awarded player of the match.
Player Dominique Harris also took to her Instagram Story to share how the win is not only significant for the Philippines, but also to women.
"HERstory in the making," she wrote as she included a picture of them celebrating their victory.
Speaking with Radyo Pilipinas, Sara Eggesvik, who gave the assist that led to Bolden’s goal, shared how she is also still in shock about the outcome of the match.
“I’m just so proud. We worked so hard. I’m just glad to share the pitch with this amazing team,” Eggesvik said as she became emotional at their tremendous accomplishment.
The players weren't the only ones who felt this feeling as coach Alen Stajcic highlighted that the staff also felt that the stakes were high during the game.
"It was very emotional out on the pitch," said Stajcic, telling reporters that players and staff shed tears, according to a report from Reuters.
"To think that we’ve done it in our second match in our first World Cup… the unity and work rate and heart from the team was special. We had some luck but we also earned our luck," he added.
Despite the win, the Filipinas have no time to kick back and relax.
"There is no celebration, to be honest. They’ll celebrate until midnight. Tomorrow it’s back to work. Job’s not done. It’s very important that we switch back into competition mode and think about what we have to do in the last game to try to squeeze out of this group," Stajcic said.
The Philippines will face Norway next on July 30 in Auckland. If they win, they will advance to the knockout rounds.