The Philippines qualifies for the Asian Cup

Is the Philippines’ highest achievement in football?

Looks like it is, based on my reading, this is the farthest that any Philippine national football team has reached in all 3 biggest international competitions with qualifying phase – the World Cup, Asian Cup and the Olympics.

Although, the Philippines qualified in the World Cup in 1950, but its participation was by invitation only.

I forgot to specify, this is this is the women’s national soccer team. The Malditas. Never underestimate a woman to make history.

All it took was just a 1-1 draw with Bahrain, thanks to the late equalizing goal by Sara Castañeda in 82nd minute.

The game was nil-nil until in the 56th minute when Bahrain’s opened the scoring to lead 1-0 over the Pinays. This is the first goal conceded by the latter, who garnered 17 goals.

The Bahrainis were visibly dejected after the game because the draw result has sent them packing, even if they’ll win their last game against Iraq.

The Malditas still has one game remaining against the Jordanians. The Philippines would still qualify even if they lose or draw.

The Philippines currently sits at second place in Group A. Jordan is at first place, but this placement has no bearing, as they already qualified as host for next year’s AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

The highlights of the game against Bahrain.

Looking the full match game replay?

Click here for other results in the AFC Women’s Cup qualifying games.