UNBEATEN Iceland gave the Philippines a severe reality check early yesterday morning (Tuesday night in Europe), romping off to a 5-0 rout to book its second win and lift the Pinatar Cup in San Pedro del Pinatar, Spain.
Living up to their lofty No. 16 ranking in the FIFA women’s world ratings, the Icelanders were cool and methodical in dismantling the defense of the Filipinas, ranked No. 53, with midfielder Amanda Andradottir scoring a brace in the 20th and 51st minutes, respectively.
Also netting a goal each were Selma Magnustdottir (71st), Hlin Eriksdottire (80th) and Alexandra Johannsdottir, who scored the coup de grace two minutes into injury time of the second half.
Iceland captured the trophy with seven points while Wales, which drew 1-1 with Scotland in the other match, finished second.
The charges of Australian coach Alen Stajcic, who absorbed their third straight loss in the short four-nation tourney, will surely learn their lessons from their experience as they continue to prepare for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in July in New Zealand.
Their next outing will the first round of the Asian Olympic qualifying tournament from April 3 to 11, with the Filipinas bracketed in Group E with Pakistan, Hong Kong and host Tajikistan.
