The Cebuana Lhuillier-backed Philippine team stunned powerhouse China, 7-6, at the start of the Co-ed Slow Pitch Softball Asia Cup in Pattaya, Thailand.
"I'm so proud with how the team played in the first game, beating a strong quality Chinese team. I know they have prepared hard for this and I'm confident they will nail one of those World Cup slots," said ASAPHIL President Jean Henri Lhuillier.
The Nationals eye one of the three world cup berths in the tournament. They are playing Singapore as of this writing.
Team coach Ana Santiago is confident with the team's overall chance in the tournament.
"We had a great training ahead of the tournament and I'm confident the team will deliver. We're all hungry for a World Cup slot," said Santiago.
Other teams competing are Japan, Chinese Taipei and host Thailand.