The Philippines women’s national football team fell to Switzerland in their opening match of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, losing 2-0.
The Filipinas put up a valiant effort, but they were ultimately undone by two first-half goals from Switzerland. The first came in the 22nd minute, when Ramona Bachmann converted a penalty after a handball in the Philippines penalty area. The second came in the 38th minute, when Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic headed home a cross from Ramona Bachmann.
The Philippines had a few chances to get back into the game, but they were unable to convert. The closest they came was in the 70th minute, when Sarina Bolden hit the crossbar from close range.
In the end, Switzerland deserved their victory. They were the better team on the day and they were able to take their chances.
The Filipinas will now need to regroup and prepare for their next match against Cameroon on July 24.
Player of the Match
- Ramona Bachmann (Switzerland)
Bachmann was a constant threat for the Philippines throughout the match. She scored one goal and set up another, and she was also involved in a number of other dangerous attacks. She was a deserving winner of the player of the match award.
Looking Ahead
The Philippines will need to improve their finishing if they want to get a result against Cameroon. They also need to be more disciplined in defense, as they gave away a number of cheap fouls that led to dangerous free-kicks and corners.
If the Filipinas can address these issues, they will be in a good position to get a result against Cameroon. However, they will need to be at their best if they want to avoid a second straight defeat in the World Cup.
