Filipinas blank Tajikistan, 8-0, to notch second win in AFC Women's Olympic qualifiers

The Philippine national women's football team blanked host country Tajikistan, 8-0, on Saturday to boost its chances for a second round appearance in the 2024 AFC Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

The Filipinas fired early, scoring six goals before halftime with five straight in less than 15 minutes, sparked by a Sofia Harrison goal at the 26th minute, followed by Tahnai Annis (28'), Carleigh Frilles (31'), Quinley Quezada (35'), and Meryll Serrano (38'). A Maya Alcantara goal capped the spectacular first half.

Chandler McDaniel had her own moment as she made two goals in the second half at the 60th and 89th mark.

The win put the Filipinas at the top of Group E with six points, ahead of Hong Kong on goal difference, after a 4-0 beating of Pakistan on Wednesday.

The Philippines will face Hong Kong next on Tuesday. Only the top team at the end of the first round will proceed to the next stage of the qualifiers.

—Justin Kenneth Carandang/JMB, GMA Integrated News