Alen Stajcic lauds 'biggest ever win in Philippines team sport' | FIFA Women's World Cup

Summary

The speaker reflects on the emotional and historic victory of the Philippines women's football team in their second-ever World Cup match, where they defeated host nation New Zealand. This achievement is framed against the backdrop of the struggles other nations have faced to win matches over several World Cups. Despite moments of luck and close calls for New Zealand, the speaker highlights the team's hard work, unity, and heart. They consider this win one of the greatest achievements in the history of Philippine team sports, comparing it to Manny Pacquiao's individual success.

Takeaways

• 😲 Beating the host nation in a World Cup is an intense and emotional experience.
• 😢 The emotional atmosphere was palpable, with players and staff in tears after the victory.
• 🏆 This was the Philippines' second match in their first-ever Women's World Cup.
• 💪 The team's achievement is even more impressive when compared to the long history and investment other teams have made in women's football.
• 🌍 Countries like New Zealand, Korea, and Colombia have taken several World Cups to win matches, but the Philippines did it in just their second match.
• ⚽ New Zealand had several good chances and the VAR call, but luck played a role in the Philippines' win.
• 🙏 Despite New Zealand’s strong performance, the Philippines earned their luck through unity, hard work, and heart.
• 🇵🇭 This victory is one of the most significant moments in the history of Filipino team sports.
• 👊 Manny Pacquiao’s individual achievements are legendary, but this win for the Philippines’ women’s football team stands as one of the country's greatest team achievements.
• 📅 The Philippines achieved this level of success in only 18 months, a remarkable feat given the short preparation time.

Q & A

What does the speaker describe as the general mood after beating the host nation in the World Cup?

The speaker describes the mood as very emotional and raw. Almost everyone, including staff and players, was crying, and it was an overwhelming experience.

Why does the speaker mention tears spilling onto their eyes?

The speaker mentions that if tears were seen on them, they were probably from the other players and staff who were crying due to the emotional victory.

How significant is this win for the Philippines in the context of the World Cup?

The win is described as unbelievable and historic for the Philippines, especially considering it's only their second match in their first-ever World Cup.

How does the speaker compare the Philippines' achievement to other teams like New Zealand, Korea, and Colombia?

The speaker points out that it took New Zealand five or six World Cups to achieve their results, and teams like Korea and Colombia have also struggled for wins, whereas the Philippines achieved it in just their second match in their first World Cup.

What challenges does the speaker highlight that New Zealand faced during the match?

The speaker acknowledges that New Zealand had three or four significant chances, including a VAR decision and a shot that hit the inside of the post, indicating that New Zealand deserved something from the game.

What does the speaker say about the Philippines' progress in football over the last 18 months?

The speaker notes that the Philippines' progress has been remarkable, especially considering their limited football history, culture, and investment compared to other countries. The team has made huge strides in just 18 months.

How does the speaker explain the team's success in the match against New Zealand?

The speaker attributes the team's success to unity, work rate, heart, and some luck, which they believe was earned through hard work.

Why does the speaker believe this victory is a special moment in the history of Philippines team sports?

The speaker believes this is one of the biggest wins in the history of the Philippines team sports because it was a collective achievement on a global stage like the World Cup, rivaling individual accomplishments like those of Pacquiao.

What examples does the speaker give to highlight the importance of this win for the Philippines?

The speaker compares this victory to other major sports achievements in the Philippines, mentioning that while Pacquiao has achieved great individual success, this win is monumental for a team sport.

How does the speaker reflect on New Zealand’s performance despite the Philippines winning the match?

The speaker acknowledges that New Zealand played well and deserved something from the game, mentioning several chances and near-goals they had, but ultimately credits the Philippines' effort, teamwork, and fortune for their win.