THE Filipinas took the early initiative but allowed Chile to come back late in the game as the two sides settled for a 1-all standoff yesterday (Saturday in South America) at the Estadio Sausalito in Vina del Mar, Chile.
Veteran team captain Hali Long scored the go-ahead goal for the visitors in the 28th minute but the hosts struck back through Keefe Navarro for the equalizer with just six minutes left in the match.
It was the first of two friendlies between the two countries meeting for the first time in the coastal city 122 kilometers northwest of the Chilean capital of Santiago.
The goodwill series is part of the intensive build-up of Australian coach Alen Stajcic’s charges for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup against a squad currently ranked 38th in the FIFA women’s ratings to their 53rd.
The La Roja Feminina, as the Chilean women’s squad is called, are bidding to qualify for the women’s global football showcase in the confederation playoffs early next year.
“Overall, I think we showed a really good performance,” said Long, who booted in her 16th goal for the squad in 63 caps.
“It was a really big challenge we had out here against Chile. The environment was great, the team was physical. Great possession on the ball, but I think we really put a good foot forward coming out of the gate, and really proud of the effort we had here,” Long added.
Long scored off a set piece after youthful forward Carleigh Frilles was awarded a free kick against Michelle Olivares, who was booked for a yellow card for her bruising tackle.
