Women's World Cup 2023: Day six round-up as Norway near shock early exit
25.07.2023 - 16:37
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Debutants Philippines shocked hosts New Zealand with a 1-0 victory to secure their first-ever Women World’s World Cup win on day six of the tournament.
The hosts registered their own maiden tournament triumph in matchday one over Norway and were fancied to secure qualification with a win over minnows Philippines - but were stunned by Sarina Bolden's early header.
Elsewhere in Group A, Norway are on the brink of a surprise early exit from their tournament following a 0-0 draw with Switzerland.
Tuesday’s final game saw Colombia open their account with a 2-0 victory over South Korea to join Germany on maximum points in Group H.
New Zealand 0-1 Philippines: Debutants dampen hosts’ feel-good factor
Group A has been full of surprises and it was the Philippines who sprung the latest surprise after downing giant-slayers New Zealand.
Manager Alen Stajcic declared his side’s win as ‘one of the biggest wins in the history of sport in the country’ after Bolden’s effort in the 24th minute proved the difference in Wellington.
After an opening 20 minutes which saw their defensive resolve tested, the Philippines showed their attacking mettle on a lethal counter-attack.
Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder Bolden raced away in celebration after diverting home Sara Eggesvik’s chipped cross.
For New Zealand it was a case of what might have been after they spurned several opportunities in front of a boisterous home crowd with expectations having been raised following their 1-0 win over Norway.
Filipinas goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel produced heroics late on, denying substitute Grace Jale with a superb fingertip save after Jacqui Hand had earlier seen a goal ruled out for offside and Hannah Wilkinson headed over with the goal at her mercy.
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