Newcomer Chandler Blue McDaniel broke past the defense and sneaked in the winning goal in the 87th minute, allowing the Philippines to repulse Hong Kong, 2-1, on Friday.
The win put the Philippine Malditas women’s team in the tournament proper of the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Asian Cup India 2022.
The 23-year-old Filipino-American forward from Norco, California, found a scoring opportunity when she slipped past her defenders in the closing minutes at the JAR Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.
McDaniel’s heroics gave the Philippine Malditas a two-game sweep and the top spot in Group E of the Asian Cup Women’s qualifiers.
With the victory, the Philippines will be among the 12 teams competing in the main draw this January.
This also kept the Philippines’ chances alive as it seeks a first FIFA Women’s World Cup appearance.
The top six teams at main draw in India will directly qualify for the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The Malditas gained the upperhand early when Tahnnai Annis headed in a cross from Rochelle Mendano, with her attempt sailing past goalkeeper Ng Cheuk Wai in the 17th minute.
In the second half, Hong Kong captain Chung Pui Ki equalized with a 61st minute free kick which went to the top corner past skipper and goalie Inna Palacios and into the net from 20 meters.
Malditas subs Alisha Del Campo then missed a chance to regain the lead for the Malditas, before McDaniel took her chance.