THE Philippines suffered a huge setback in the opening match of its campaign in the Asean Football Federation (AFF) Under-18 Women’s Championship 2022 after a lopsided 4-0 loss to Australia on July 25 at the Jakabaring Athletic Field in Palembang, Indonesia.

Avaani Prakash hit the opening goal in the 26th minute after scoring inside the box.

With a 1-0 lead going into the second half, India Luise Beier doubled the lead in the 59th minute following an accurate pass by substitute Alana Cortellino.

Prakash scored a brace in the 62nd, while Maya Lobo finished off the Filipinas with a fourth goal in the 69th minute.

Meanwhile, Myanmar beat Malaysia, 2-0, in the other Group B match.

The Philippines sits at the last place after the opener loss.

Australia is at the top with three points and is just ahead of Myanmar, which is in second place, on goal difference.

Malaysia is third with no points and is only ahead of the Philippines on goal difference.

The Philippines takes on Myanmar in a very crucial match today, July 27. The Philippines can’t afford another loss if it intends to advance in the semifinals.

The Philippines needs at least a second place finish in Group B to advance.