SARA Eggesvik, whose assist paved the way for Sarina Bolden’s goal that gave the Philippines its first ever FIFA Women’s World Cup win, knows the team’s tough task to secure qualification in the knockout stage.

“We have to restart again and think of the next game,” Eggesvik said as the Filipinas prepare for their final Group A match against Norway on Sunday in Auckland.

“We have to take advantage with what we have. We want to see if we can create trouble and be competitive. To keep our heads down and keep fighting,” she added.

The Philippines will become Group A winners if it topples Norway and will face either Group C’s Japan or Spain in the Round of 16.

While it appears to be a tall order, Eggesvik said that beating the Gresshoppene will have a huge impact for football development in the country.

“Going to the knockout stage, that would mean a lot. From being a small football country, we can inspire a lot of girls and boys to start playing football and show that it is possible to do something great although you are from the Philippines,” Eggesvik said.

Bolden and goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel were the biggest stars in the Philippines’ conquest of co-hosts New Zealand, but Eggesvik’s contribution in the match was also huge.

Eggesvik, who traces her roots in Davao City, delivered the cross that Bolden headed home in the 24th minute in Wellington.

Eggesvik will relish this moment for a long time.

“I remember getting the ball in the box and just crossed it. It was an amazing header by Sarina over three defenders. It was a team effort. I am just so glad and grateful. I am so proud of this team,” Eggesvik said.

Born in Norway’s coastal city of Bodo, Eggesvik first caught the attention during last year’s 10th AFF Women’s Championship where her midfield mastery and fluid play were in full display as the Filipinas bagged the country’s first major international title at the fabled Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Trying to hold back her tears, Eggesvik said the victory over the fancied Football Ferns showed that “this team is really something special”.

“It shows we can compete at this level and we will keep on fighting. It shows that it is possible to get a win, to get a goal and get points from our games. That motivates us,” said the 26-year-old midfielder.

Eggesvik paid tribute to coach Alen Stajcic and the rest of the staff “who keep on pushing us and making us better every day”.

“We have always believed in ourselves even when we lost and played bad games. We will keep on playing hard,” Eggesvik said.

As the euphoria of the winning moment has settled down, the Philippines is now focusing on Norway, which is trying to earn its first win of the tournament after a shock opening day loss to New Zealand and a scoreless draw to Switzerland.

The Gresshoppene are ranked 34 places higher than the Filipinas at No. 12.