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The nation celebrates: Prominent figures react to PH's first-ever FIFA World Cup win

By Gabrielle Mercado Published Jul 25, 2023 10:50 pm

The Philippine women's national football team won the FIFA Women's World Cup for the first time in history after surprising co-host New Zealand at the Wellington Regional Stadium.  

The Philippines' first-ever goal in the competition, which Sarina Bolden expertly headed in during the first half, marked the beginning of the country's winning journey. 

The team, dubbed Filipinas, defeated New Zealand 1-0 for the nation's first World Cup victory after the score remained the same till halfway. 

Prominent figures, including celebrities, expressed their euphoria for the Philippines' historic triumph in the global football competition. 

Senator Pia Cayetano, who is the head of the Philippine delegation to the FIFA World Cup, noted how the country's support for its own talent paved the way to Filipinas' historic win.

Speaking to CNN Philippines, Cayetano said, "Our team has courageously defied the odds and has shown through sports, through football, what Filipinos can do when supported and given the opportunity to excel."

"They are here at the World Cup competing with the best!" the senator added.

The assistant coach of the Philippine Women's National Football Team, meanwhile, called the win "another historic moment for the nation."

"The players and staff continue to make history and creating life long memories. The hard work continues," he added.

The post of the Philippine Women's National Football Team was likewise flooded with congratulatory wishes, including FIFA itself.

The renowned association commented, “History makers 👏,” on the celebratory post.  

Former vice president Leni Robredo took to Twitter to applaud the effort exerted by the football team in achieving a remarkable victory for the country. “Maraming salamat for this historic win, Filipinas! Mabuhay kayo 🇵🇭,” she said.  

Peter Kell, New Zealand ambassador to the Philippines, joined in the celebration in his Twitter post. “Congratulations to the @PilipinasWNFT Filipinas! 🇵🇭 Sobrang husay! Napahanga niyo ako! 👏🏻🎉 The fans too are amazing!” he said 

Actor Ryan Agoncillo expressed his sincere appreciation to the Filipinas on his Instagram after attending the Wellington Regional Stadium to watch the game live. 

Actress Isabelle Daza joined in the country's celebration with an Instagram Story which she captioned with, "Go Philippines!!!! Laban!!!"

PBA player Diego Dario, meanwhile, put a spotlight not only on Filipinas' recent feat but also the team's hard work outside the field. "HISTORY!!! So proud of the unseen work and effort that you have put in for this moment," he wrote in an Instagram Story.

Anton del Rosario was likewise loud and proud of the inspiring "warriors" the Filipinas members proved themselves to be with their extraordinary feat. The Filipino footballer wrote in an Instagram Story, "WARRIOR! LOVE IT! PROUD! PRIDE! Most people wouldn’t get back up from that and rolled off the field! You are the fight we all need!"

Australian professional soccer player Mark Schwarzer lauded the Philippine women's football team on their outstanding performance and their first-ever victory at the FIFA World Cup. 

With this victory, the Philippines will be the first newly-debuted nation to triumph at the 2023 Women's World Cup.  

On July 26, the FIFA Women's World Cup's group stage will feature a competition between Japan, Costa Rica, Spain, Zambia, Canada, and the Republic of Ireland. 

TAGS: Sports FIFA FIFA World Cup

About the author

Gabrielle Mercado

Contributing writer / Intern

Gabrielle Erika Mercado is a graduating journalism student at the University of Santo Tomas. She finds happiness in writing about food, lifestyle, and entertainment.