Annis, Wilson deliver as Malditas trip Nepal XI

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Malditas pulled off a thrilling 2-1 comeback win over Nepal to open its AFC Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign with flying colors at the Jar Stadium in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Tahnai Annis and Camille Wilson converted the late, crucial goals two minutes apart during regulation and added time to carry the Nationals to victory after being blanked for the most part of the match.

Annis scored the equalizer in the 90th minute off a Chandler McDaniel’s assist before Wilson caught a Camille Rodriguez’ cross from the left field for the go-ahead in the 92nd minute.

The Filipina booters were scoreless for over 80 minutes and on the brink of defeat after Bimala Chadhaury’s goal for Nepal in the ninth minute.

The Malditas, mentored by Marlon Maro, return to the field against Hong Kong on Friday to complete its Group F schedule with a potential win assuring them a ticket to the Asian Cup set in January in India.

Only host India, reigning champion Japan, Australia and China so far have qualified to the Asian Cup with eight more seats up for grabs. The top five teams in the Asian Cup will advance to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Philippines finished sixth in the 2018 edition held in Amman, Jordan.