New Zealand Stuns Norway in the Opening Match of the Women's World Cup

 

Hannah Wilkinson's second-half goal caused a major upset, giving New Zealand a surprising 1-0 victory over former champions Norway at Eden Park on Thursday. As co-hosts, New Zealand made a stylish start to the Women's World Cup by securing their first-ever win at the global soccer showpiece.

Prior to this triumph, the Football Ferns had not managed to win a single game in their five previous World Cup appearances. However, Wilkinson changed their fortunes in the 48th minute when she scored from close range following Jacqui Hand's precise cross, a lead they held onto until the end.

"I am incredibly proud," said New Zealand co-captain Ali Riley. "We have been striving for this moment for a very long time."

Norway, champions in 1995, put on a disappointing and disjointed performance, struggling to find their rhythm and rarely threatening to equalize. Their best opportunity came from Tuva Hansen's right-footed attempt, which hit the crossbar in the 81st minute.

In the 90th minute, New Zealand's Ria Percival had the chance to seal the game with a penalty, but her shot struck the crossbar, making for a nervy finish.

"This victory means so much to us because there were many doubters due to our recent results, but we believed in ourselves throughout this entire game," said Riley. "We displayed confidence and determination. This is the stuff dreams are made of."

The win puts New Zealand on track to achieve their goal of advancing past the group stage of the tournament. Their next match is against debutants the Philippines on Tuesday, considered to be their best chance of securing another win in Group A.

Despite a tragic shooting incident in Auckland earlier in the day that left three people dead, the opening ceremony was still a dazzling event, featuring pyrotechnics and honoring the region's Indigenous heritage.

Norway now has five days to regroup before facing Switzerland in their second group-stage match in Hamilton. Striker Ada Hegerberg expressed their need to improve their attacking play, as they were unable to mount significant pressure on New Zealand during the match.

Co-hosts Australia also began their World Cup campaign on the same day, facing Ireland in Sydney. However, they were without their captain Sam Kerr, who was ruled out of two games due to a calf injury sustained in training the day before.