THE Philippine Malditas national women’s team took their first loss in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup after China shut them out, 3-0, on Monday evening.
Li Ying and Ma Jun showed the way in the first half by scoring early in the 17th and 31st minute of their game at the King Abdullah II Stadium in Jordan.
The Chinese booters took the opening goal after they got past a lapse in the Malditas defense.
On the other hand, Ma unleashed a volley near the edge of the Filipinas’ penalty area for China.
The Chinese were in control from the first half onward and were in ball possession 70 percent of the time.
Despite the loss, the Philippines still put on several defensive stops to keep the score respectable.
Ryley Bugay and Hali Long were able to make key stops during the match.
On the offensive end, Jesse Shugg and Leah Larot threatened the Chinese defenders, but were off target.
After outshooting the Philippines in attempts, 13-1, the Chinese got another goal from Li in the 57th minute.
The Malditas return to action on Friday against Thailand.
They will for fight for a place in the FIFA Women’s World Cup that is still at stake.
A win against Thailand on Friday (Philippine time) will allow them to join China.
Thailand will also need a win when they face Jordan.