The Filipinas target a big win against Myanmar to secure a spot in the knockout phase of the ASEAN Women's MSIG Serenity Cup.
The Filipinas face a pivotal Group B match against Myanmar on Wednesday, August 13, at 8:30 p.m. Manila time at Lach Tray Stadium in Haiphong as they seek to bounce back from a tough loss to Australia and keep their hopes alive in the ASEAN Women's MSIG Serenity Cup.
Defending champions Philippines must secure a victory in this game to strengthen their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
A draw could still see them through, but only if Australia falls to Timor-Leste in the final group match.
The Filipinas can guarantee progression regardless of other results if they win by two or more goals — or if they score at least three goals in their victory.
[READ: SCENARIOS: Filipinas face narrow road to ASEAN Women's MSIG Serenity Cup knockouts]
Chandler McDaniel, spearheading the attack alongside Quinley Quezada—who has already netted twice in the tournament—will be key to breaking down Myanmar’s defense.
After struggling to find the back of the net against Australia, McDaniel will be eager to rediscover her scoring form and inspire her teammates.
On the defensive end, her sister Olivia will have her hands full against an inspired Myanmar skipper Win Theingi Tun who is coming off of a hat-trick performance in their big 3-0 win over Timor-Leste that placed them as leaders in Group B.
Vietnam and Thailand have already secured their spots in the semifinals from the other group, setting up potential high-stakes matchups should the Filipinas advance.
With group stage survival on the line, all eyes will be on the Filipinas as they fight to maintain their title defense and continue their quest for glory in the MSIG Serenity Cup.
(With reports from Luisa Morales)
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[Editor's note: This article was written by a member of the One Sports Digital with the help of AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]