History is made as Philippines qualify for the FIFA Women's World Cup for the first time

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The Philippines qualified for the World Cup for the first time on Sunday following a 4-3 penalty win over Chinese Taipei.

Following up on their sensational performance in the group stage that saw them win against long-term rival Thailand and then followed by a gallant fight against  Australia, the Philippines time and time again rose to the occasion and made history on Sunday night that inspired a whole new generation of aspiring Filipino footballers. 

Quinley Quezada broke the deadlock and put the Philippines ahead after 49 minutes before Chinese Taipei levelled through Zhou Li-ping at the 82nd minute. After a grueling 120 minutes’ playing time had failed to separate Philippines and Chinese Taipei,  the match went to a penalty shootout.

Then it was penalties. Sara Castañeda scored first for the Philippines before Chinese Taipei goalkeeper Cheng Ssu-yu kept out Hali Long and Jessica Miclat. Tahnai Annis, Olivia McDaniel, and Sarina Bolden all finished for the Philippines to end the shootout 4-3.

Goals from  Quinley Quezada, Sara Castañeda, Tahnai Annis, Olivia McDaniel, and Sarina Bolden  in the penalty ensured Philippines would be on the plane to Australia come 2023.

The goal scorers weren’t the only heroes of the team’s collective historical win. Dominique Randle contributed as a versatile defender with contagious energy. Katrina Guillou is the midfield orchestrator and tireless teammate with excellent vision who often set plays in motion to help execute the strategy that ultimately sent Philippines to the World Cup.

The Philippines will join Asian powerhouse Japan, Korea, Australia and China in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup as AFC confederation representatives.












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