There was a lot riding on the captain’s shoulders in the match, as Philippines needed the three points to book a confirmed passage to the knockout stage and Annis admitted it affected their play. 

However, they found their composure in the second half, with the 32-year-old contributing two incredible strikes to help secure the win. 

“We came out with a lot of nerves and we were trying to do a lot,” said Annis. “In the second half, we had a little bit more composure, more purpose and I think it really showed. 

“My first half was definitely not the best. I was in my head and trying to do a little too much, when I knew what I needed to do was play simple. In the second half, I took some pressure off and just played simple. 

“When the opportunities came, I took them and relied on what I know and the experience I have, and that helped me be so much more successful in the second half.”

Annis made her Asian Cup debut in Jordan 2018, where Philippines missed out on a FIFA World Cup spot to Korea Republic but she is feeling more confident this time, thanks to a more intense preparation under head coach Alen Stajcic. 

“The time we spent together in this campaign is what makes it so different. We’ve been blessed with the opportunity to have such quality time together and it’s the most we’ve ever had in over a period of time and it really showed."

“We’ve been able to be more cohesive as a unit and a team of staff and players together, which I don’t think we’ve ever had before. We really appreciate that and that’s what got us to this point so far, and everyone is really excited and hopeful. 

“What we’re trying to do is stay in the moment, embrace all the good things that are happening because of the hard work we’ve put in. We’re not finished yet, so we can’t get complacent, but it’s important to embrace how far we’ve come and all of the things we’ve accomplished thus far.”

Philippines play Chinese Taipei in the quarter-finals on Sunday and a win for either side will mean a confirmed slot in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.