By: Gil Moriones
CALOOCAN CITY -- The Filipinas national women's football team started their 2026 Women's Asian Cup campaign with an opening 1-0 loss after the host, Australia, scored the goal in front of a 44,379-strong crowd at Perth Stadium, Sunday afternoon Philippine time.
The Matildas only settled for one goal, which was scored in the 14th minute after Caitlin Foord fed Sam Kerr with her header to establish an early lead in this opening game.
Filipinas' custodian Olivia McDaniel served as the "blood clot" to stop the anticipated bleeding of Australia's attack after she saved the free-kick attempt by Steph Catley in the 39th minute.
The SEA Games gold medalists were able to hold off the 2023 Women's World Cup semifinalists at a 1-0 scoreline after the first 45 minutes of the opening match.
The Philippines' solid, resilient, and disciplined defense repelled all the offensive attempts of the Matildas in the second half.
McDaniel led the resilient defensive anchor of the Philippines with five superb saves.
They will face the Korea Republic on Thursday for a must-win second matchday to maintain their relevance in their qualifying pursuit for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil.
