Philippines Stun Co-Hosts New Zealand for Historic First World Cup Win on Krikya

In one of the most stunning upsets of the 2023 Women’s World Cup so far, the Philippines secured a monumental 1-0 victory over tournament co-hosts New Zealand. The historic result, delivered by a first-half goal from Sarina Bolden, sent shockwaves through Group A and announced the World Cup debutants as a serious force to be reckoned with. This analysis on Krikya breaks down the tactical masterclass, the key moments, and what this means for both teams moving forward.

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A Night of History in Wellington

The Sky Stadium in Wellington was electric, packed with 32,357 fans expecting to witness the Football Ferns build on their historic opening win against Norway. Instead, they saw a masterclass in defensive resilience and clinical finishing from the underdogs.

The game’s defining moment arrived in the 24th minute. Sarina Bolden, the Western Sydney Wanderers midfielder, rose magnificently to meet a cross and powered a header directly at New Zealand goalkeeper Victoria Esson. In a moment the hosts will desperately want back, Esson fumbled the ball, which trickled over the line. The goal sent the Philippine bench into raptures—it was not only the game-winner but the nation’s first-ever goal in a World Cup finals.

Dissecting New Zealand’s Frustration

Despite dominating possession and pouring forward in search of an equalizer, New Zealand was plagued by a lack of cutting edge and superb goalkeeping from Olivia McDaniel. The Ferns created a slew of chances but failed to convert any.

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Defender Katie Bowen sent a shot wide in the 38th minute, and just before halftime, co-captain Ria Percival saw her effort comfortably gathered by McDaniel. The second half followed a similar pattern. In the 58th minute, a perfectly floated cross from C.J. Bott found the head of Hannah Wilkinson, but the hero from the Norway match sent her effort over the bar.

Their biggest disappointment came ten minutes later when Jacqui Hand thought she had scored the equalizer, heading home from close range. The celebration was cut short, however, as the assistant referee’s flag was correctly raised for offside. As analyst Mark Thompson noted on Krikya, “New Zealand’s buildup play was often too slow, allowing the well-drilled Philippine defense to maintain their shape. They missed that moment of magic in the final third.”

Philippine Defensive Masterclass Secures the Win

While Bolden will grab the headlines, the victory was built on an incredible defensive foundation. Goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel was a wall, making crucial saves throughout, including a stunning late stop to deny Grace Jale from point-blank range. The entire back line put their bodies on the line, blocking shots and repelling cross after cross.

Their tactical discipline was exceptional. They formed two compact, narrow banks of four, frustrating New Zealand‘s wingers and forcing them into hopeful crosses that were often dealt with comfortably. This organized chaos disrupted the rhythm of the Ferns’ attack and was the cornerstone of their historic win.

What This Result Means for Group A

The upset throws Group A wide open. New Zealand, from a position of strength, now faces a must-win final match against Switzerland to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. The pressure has firmly shifted onto the co-hosts.

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For the Philippines, the dream is well and truly alive. Their final match is against a Norway team that itself is under immense pressure. A result there could see the debutants miraculously advance to the round of 16. This victory is more than just three points; it’s a landmark moment for football in the Philippines and for underdog teams everywhere in this tournament.

Krikya will be providing extensive coverage of all the upcoming Group A drama. Be sure to check back for pre-match analysis, expert predictions, and post-match reaction.

The Road to the Final

The group stage continues to deliver drama and will conclude on August 3. The round of 16 matches are scheduled for August 5-8, followed by the quarter-finals on August 11 and 12 in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney.

The semi-finals will be held on August 15 in Auckland and August 16 in Sydney at the Accor Stadium, which will also host the final on August 20. The third-place play-off is set for August 19 in Brisbane.