Women’s World Cup: Philippines keep hopes alive with shock win over New Zealand

The Philippines have kept their chances of progressing at the Women’s World Cup with a surprise win over co-hosts New Zealand.

Sarina Bolden’s first-half strike was enough to beat New Zealand, who would have progressed to the second round with a win.

A world-class save from Philippines goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel deep into stoppage time kept the win intact.

The result puts the Philippines level on points with New Zealand in Group A, ahead of Norway’s meeting with Switzerland later today.

Bolden gave the Philippines their first ever Women’s World Cup goal in the 24th minute when she headed in from Sara Kristine Eggesvik’s cross.

New Zealand took control of the match after that though and Ali Riley’s low cross fell to Jacqui Hand who shot wide.

Hannah Wilkinson headed narrowly over in the second half before Hand struck the foot of the post from the edge of the penalty area.

New Zealand did have the ball in the net with 20 minutes remaining when Hand headed in Wilkinson’s cross but VAR ruled the goal out for offside.

Deep into stoppage time, substitute Grace Jale sent the ball towards the bottom corner but McDaniel’s superb diving save ensured the Philippines held onto all three points.

New Zealand face Switzerland on Sunday while the Philippines face Norway at the same time.

Cover Photo: Philippines flag” by Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee) is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 .