Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, February 3) – The Philippines wrapped up its historic 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup campaign after losing to South Korea, 0-2, in the semifinals on Thursday at the Shri Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune, India.
The Filipinas could not get a good look at the goal in the first half, given the South Koreans dominance in handling and attacking the ball.
“It was a very tough match,” said Philippines head coach Alen Stajcic. “We hope to build that pressure with the scoreboard and that didn’t happen. Clearly, they are the better team and we’ve been dominated.”
Four minutes into the match, South Korean midfielder Cho So Hyun scored the maiden goal with a running header that successfully evaded the Philippine defense.
Forward Son Hwayeon doubled the lead for South Korea in the 34th minute after a fantastic hit in the middle coming from an assist by defender Choo Hyojoo.
In the second half, the Philippine booters got more involved in the defense but their efforts were matched by the intensity posed by South Korean backline players.
The only time the Filipinas got a clear chance for the goal was in the 77th minute when Katrina Guillou received a botched offensive play, but the ball went outside the box.
Stajcic commended his players for giving a good fight against a squad that is ranked 18th in the world.
Despite the semifinals exit, it was still a productive campaign for the Philippines, which clinched its first ever Women’s World Cup berth on Sunday by beating Chinese Taipei on penalties in their quarterfinals match.
“After 120 minutes the other night, they fought right to death. It’s an amazing display of heart and courage and spirit and this group. I’m proud of them, I know the whole coaching staff are really proud. Everyone back home in the Philippines should be so proud of this group,” said Stajcic.
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