Successful FIFA Women's World Cup viewing party co-hosted by New Zealand and Philippines

New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell with Australian Acting Counsellor/Chief Migration Officer Jennifer Bryant

July 25 will prove to be a historic day for Philippine sports, as its Senior Women's National Football Team secured its first-ever World Cup victory, defeating New Zealand, 1-0, behind a 24th minute goal from Sarina Bolden, and a clean sheet from the player of the match Olivia McDaniel.

To help highlight the importance of the event, the Philippine Football Federation and the New Zealand Embassy hosted an official FIFA Women's World Cup viewing party for the match. Over five hundred individuals packed the UP Town Center in Quezon City, which included members of the diplomatic corps, a bunch of student-athletes, and enthusiastic spectators.

Notable attendees include EU Ambassador Luc Veron, as well as Australia's Acting Counsellor/Chief Migration Officer Jennifer Bryant, highlighting the potential of sport's ability to strengthen international ties.

The atmosphere at the venue reflected the intensity of the match at Sky Stadium in Wellington, with every goal attempt, defensive maneuver, and strategic play eliciting appropriate crowd emotions, as both teams gave it their all in an effort to snag all three points in play.

As the Filipinas successfully fended off the Football Ferns, it revealed a mix of jubilation and relief while also showcasing sportsmanship. New Zealand Ambassador Peter Kell extended warm congratulations to the Filipino supporters present.

He shares, "Sa totoo lang, ngayong araw, naramdaman ko ang kapangyarihan ng Team Filipinas at ng kanilang mga tagahanga at tagasuporta. Both Football Ferns and Team Filipinas skillfully displayed a great fight. We are immensely grateful to have organised this live viewing event with the Philippine Football Federation and to witness the fervent support for women's football. The camaraderie and unity displayed by everyone today are a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together."

The Philippine Football Federation adds, "This event has shown the true essence of football and its ability to unite people from different backgrounds. We are grateful for the opportunity to host this event alongside the New Zealand Embassy and strengthen our ties through our shared love for the sport."

All-in-all, the viewing party served as a successful platform for fostering unity, camaraderie, and cultural exchange between New Zealand and the Philippines, highlighting the ability of football to bridge the gap and share passion between nations. It also celebrated women's football and the commitment each side is willing to make in continuing to uplift it.