Filipinas head coach Alen Stajcic acknowledged that luck played a part in their historic 1-0 victory over New Zealand in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on Tuesday afternoon in New Zealand.
The veteran football coach highlighted the significance of the disallowed goal by New Zealand’s Jacqui Hand following the review with the video assistance referee (VAR), and also praised the remarkable saves made by Filipinas’ keeper Olivia McDaniel.
“We had some luck, but we earned that luck,” Stajcic said in a post-game interview. “Of course, we rode our luck because New Zealand had three or four unbelievable chances (to tie the game).
“There was that VAR call, an inside-the-post goal (that McDaniel was able to save), but the unity, work rate, and heart of the team were special,” added the former Australian national team player.
Stajcic further expressed his personal joy and satisfaction as his players successfully achieved a momentous victory for the country in their inaugural qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
“This must be a special moment in Philippine football history—the biggest win in any team sport,” Stajcic said.
See Related Story:
Filipino netizens celebrate in festive mode after Filipinas’ upset win
