Switzerland move top of Group A with 2-0 win over Philippines
The FIFA Women's World Cup saw Switzerland claim a convincing 2-0 victory over the Philippines in their debut match, placing them at the top of Group A. Credit: FIFA/Adidas
The FIFA Women's World Cup saw Switzerland claim a convincing 2-0 victory over the Philippines in their debut match, placing them at the top of Group A.
This comes after host nation New Zealand got the Women's World Cup started with a bang yesterday, claiming a win over Norway.
The Swiss team were the first to score twice in the Australia & New Zealand 2023 tournament, securing their victory either side of half-time.
The Philippines, participating in their first-ever World Cup match, nearly made a dream start when Katrina Guillou found the net 15 minutes in. However, the goal was disallowed for offside, halting the celebrations.
As the match progressed, Switzerland began to assert their dominance. Their breakthrough came just before half-time when Coumba Sow was fouled inside the penalty area. Ramona Bachmann stepped up and confidently converted from the spot to give the Swiss team the lead.
The advantage was extended in the 64th minute, courtesy of Seraina Piubel. After a fine save from Filipino goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel denied Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic, and the follow-up from Sow was also parried, Piubel found the net for her first competitive international goal.
The Philippines mounted a spirited fightback, but their European opponents held firm to maintain their lead and secure a crucial win.
Ramona Bachmann added another feather to her cap, becoming Switzerland's outright top scorer in the FIFA Women’s World Cup with four goals. Her successful penalty was the fourth awarded at Australia & New Zealand 2023, keeping up the trend of a penalty in every match so far.
In the other Group A fixture, hosts New Zealand started their campaign with an exciting win against Norway yesterday.
The Kiwis created a number of promising opportunities before Hannah Wilkinson found the back of the net early in the second half.
Despite facing intense pressure in the later stages of the match and even missing a penalty, New Zealand held on to make their mark in the tournament's opening game.
