Multi-titled soft tennis player Bien Zoleta believes the Philippine women’s team has what it takes to push defending champion Japan in the Asian Games semifinals.
The Philippine squad will face the powerhouse Japanese side on Sunday morning with a place in the gold medal match on the line.
For Zoleta, the team’s breakthrough semifinal appearance has strengthened its belief that a long-awaited breakthrough is within reach.
The Philippines had previously struggled to advance beyond the quarterfinals in four consecutive Asian Games campaigns. This time, however, the team finally moved past that stage and secured at least a bronze medal.
“Walang imposible. Apat na beses kami na puro quarters, ngayon naging posible ang lahat,” Zoleta said in an interview with Bilyonaryo News Channel’s Ray Mark Patriarca.
Zoleta added that the team intends to maximize the opportunity and fight until the final point.
She recalled the message of Philippine Olympic Committee President Abraham “Bambol” Tolentino during the delegation’s send-off ceremony, urging the athletes to give everything they have in competition.
The Philippine team is now focused on extending its campaign against Japan and earning a place in the championship match. (Adrian Co)
