Philippines beat Iran at 2020 Olympic Qualifiers Round 2

Tehran Times – DOHA, East Asian side the Philippines registered win over Iran on the opening day of Group C action in Round 2 of the AFC Women’s Olympic Football Tournament Qualifiers on Wednesday.

Two excellent goals in five second-half minutes proved decisive for the Philippines, who kick-started their week in Qatar with an impressive 2-0 win over Iran at Grand Hamad Stadium in Doha, Qatar.

A stunning opener from Joyce Semacio was quickly followed by Alisha Del Campo’s precise second, as Let Dimzon’s side passed their opening test, and set up a top of the table clash with Chinese Taipei on Saturday.

In a fast-paced opening 45 minutes, both sides took regular turns at trying to get in behind the opposing defense, but while the match was high on energy, clear cut chances were rare, and it remained scoreless at the interval, the-afc.com reported.

The game burst into life in the second minute of the second period, as Philippines striker Semacio produced a magnificent volley on the turn to fire the Southeast Asians into the lead.

Before Iran could recover, that lead was extended as Del Campo breached the Iranian defense before picking out the bottom corner to beat goalkeeper Zahra Kahjavi and make it 2-0 in the 52nd minute.

Maryam Azmoun’s side refused to give up, launching a wave of attacks and pushing several extra bodies forward, but their efforts went without reward as the Philippines celebrated what may prove to be a priceless three points.

Earlier on the day, Chinese Taipei defeated Palestine 3-0.