Switzerland beats the Philippines to win their first match at the Women's World Cup - News Block

DUNEDIN, New Zealand (AP) — Ramona Bachmann drilled into the left side of the net on a penalty kick moments before halftime to help Switzerland beat the Philippines 2-0 on Friday in the first Women’s World Cup match for both teams.

Switzerland’s Seraina Piubel added a goal in the second half, scoring on the rebound of a missed shot by Coumba Sow that bounced off Philippine keeper Olivia McDaniel.

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The Group A match was the first game inside Dunedin’s Forsyth Barr Stadium, the tournament’s only indoor venue. The cheers of the crowd resounded around the walls of the half-filled stadium, with an attendance of 13,711 in a venue that can accommodate more than 30,000.

Philippine forward Katrina Guillou appeared to score a goal in the 15th minute, but it was ruled out for offside.

Switzerland dominated offensively, outscoring the Philippines 17-3, but the Philippines’ defense held. McDaniel held his own, making several key saves in the first half, only allowing Bachmann’s late penalty.

KEY MOMENT

The referees scored the key penalty against the Philippines in the closing moments of the first half, drawing a chorus of boos from the Filipino fans. Switzerland’s Sow slid for the ball in the Philippines penalty area, and as she went down, Jessika Cowart kicked her off.

McDaniel was wrong on Bachmann’s penalty.

BECAUSE IT IS IMPORTANT

With the win, Switzerland move into a tie for first place in Group A with New Zealand and improve their chances of progressing to the round of 16. The Philippines played valiantly in their Women’s World Cup debut, but faces a tough rise to enter the knockout stage of the tournament.

WHATS NEXT

Switzerland will face Norway, who lost by surprise to New Zealand, in their second group game in Hamilton. The Philippines will take on an energized New Zealand in Wellington. Both games are on Tuesday.