Six players found the back of the net for the Filipinas, quickly outscoring the hosts 6-0 in the first half. Chandler McDaniel's quick return goal and back-to-back goals from him sealed the lopsided victory.
The Philippines advanced to 2-0 with the victory in Group E of the first round of Olympic qualifying after scoring six points to tie Hong Kong, albeit they were ahead due to a far better goal differential of 12 and five, respectively.
When Sofia Harrison opened the floodgates in the first half's 26th minute from the right side, the national team was aggressive right away, barely giving Tajikistan goalie Saidova Saiyora time to gather herself.
Tahnai Annis, the team's captain, scored the second goal into an empty net two minutes later, and Carleigh Frilles added the third goal just five minutes later.
Following an assist from Annis for a header, Quinley Quezada had her chance in the 35th minute. Meryll Serrano then quickly followed three minutes later.
After Maya Alcantara's goal off a rebound, the Filipinas increased their lead to 6-0 before the half.
At halftime, four substitutes were introduced, including McDaniel, who hasn't played since suffering an injury in January 2022.
Nonetheless, McDaniel was all over Tajikistan goalkeeper Gulova Minisa and finally scored in the 60th minute after a ball from Frilles.
Jaclyn Sawicki's long pass set up the eighth and final goal, which McDaniel expertly chipped over Tajikistan's goalkeeper Minisa to complete the thrashing.
On Tuesday, April 11, the Philippines will play 79th-ranked Hong Kong in an attempt to sweep its first-round campaign.
The winner advances to the second round of the Olympic qualifying matches.(Romeo Braceros Jr.)
Photo: PFF
Facebook Conversations