By: Icko de Guzman
For 40 minutes, the Philippines dared to believe they could accomplish the impossible — defeating Japan to secure a second straight FIFA Women’s World Cup berth.
However, Japan had other plans.
Nadeshiko Japan overwhelmed the Filipinas, 7–0, at Accor Stadium in Sydney, Australia, sealing their place in the semifinals and securing qualification to their 10th FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance.
Head coach Mark Torcaso named a youthful and spirited lineup for the match, with Nina Meollo starting ahead of veteran Olivia McDaniel in goal.
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Ariana Markey, Alexa Pino, Jourdyn Curran, Mallie Ramirez, and Bella Pasion were among the young players in the starting XI. Meanwhile, regulars Hali Long, Jessika Cowart, Jaclyn Sawicki, and Kaya Hawkinson completed the lineup.
Despite the Filipinas’ grit and determination against the 2011 Women’s World Cup champions, Japan seized control from the outset and never looked back.
After 45 minutes of resolute defending, Japan finally broke through just before halftime, as Mina Tanaka opened the scoring in the 45th minute following a goalmouth scramble off a corner kick.
Japan doubled its lead two minutes after the restart when Toko Koga headed home from another corner to make it 2–0.
The second half saw Japan’s relentless attacking pressure continue, resulting in two quick goals in the 65th and 67th minutes. Aoba Fujino found the charging Remina Chiba on the right flank for a near-post finish in the 65th minute, before Manaka Matsukubo made a darting run past several defenders and slotted the ball into the net two minutes later.
Koga added her second goal of the match in the 76th minute, heading in Tanaka’s cross to make it 5–0. Momoko Tanikawa and Riko Ueki then added late goals in the 86th and 90th minutes to cap the scoreline.
Meollo, who made her debut in goal, praised the squad’s effort despite the result.
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“I’m very proud of every single one of us,” said Meollo after the match. “Every single one of the girls put their body on the line, and we fought for each other.”
“It was challenging, but it was a challenge that I was ready for. First of all, I’m always honored to play for the flag. For my country, it’s a privilege, and it’s an experience that I will never forget.”
With the victory, Japan will face South Korea in the semifinals on March 18 at Accor Stadium.
Meanwhile, the Philippines will still have a chance to clinch World Cup qualification when they take on Uzbekistan in the playoff on Thursday, March 19, at Gold Coast Stadium.
