The Philippines were hit with a reality check after Kenya ran riot with a 4-1 win at the Pink Ladies Week in Antalya, Turkey, on October 30.

Defying the script, the Harambee Starlets pulled off the biggest win in their team’s history. Ranked 151st in the World, Kenya blitzed through the 39th-ranked Malditas for 90 minutes.

Mark Torcaso made one change from the side that defeated Jordan last Saturday, with Quinley Quezada replacing Sofia Harrison on the team sheet. The Australian tactician prioritized attacking intent as they sought to sweep their assignments in the window.

However, the plan backfired just eight minutes in, when Kenya went ahead on a fine play from the left wing. Wincate Kaari’s cross got through Rebecca Okwaro and Fasila Adhiambo in the penalty box before forward Elizabeth Mutukiza tucked in a right-footed rocket just outside of the six-yard area.

Mutukiza made it known to the Filipinas that they are having a long day, as it was shown in the 37th minute. Her cross caused a mix-up between Jessica Cowart and Hali Long, with the captain’s last touch got it into their own net to make it 2-0 for Kenya.

Although Sarina Bolden pulled one back from the spot midway into the second half, Kenya put an end to the comeback try soon afterward. A thumping hit by Kenyan substitute Purity Alukwe from outside of the box was the quick reply to restore the two-goal deficit.

Lastly, Adhiambo then put the match beyond doubt nine minutes before full time when she took Angela Beard head-on and shot from a tight angle from inside the box for the final count.

The loss will be a bitter pill to swallow for the Filipinas, as it will expect a massive drop in the FIFA rankings after the window.

PHILIPPINES: McDaniel (GK), Cowart, Sawicki (Hawkinson 52’), Long ©, Bolden (Flanigan 90+2’), Eggesvik, Beard, Serrano (Carpio 52’), Quezada (Mathelus 82’), Guillou, DeFazio

KENYA: Kundu (GK), Norah Ann, Nasaka, Akinyi, Nyarinda (Akoth 75’), Okwaro (Alukwe 46’), Lwangu, Mutukiza, Kaari, Ingosi ©, Omondi

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