New Zealand and Australia commenced their 2023 Women’s World Cup campaigns as co-hosts with 1-0 victories over Norway and the Republic of Ireland respectively in Group A and B on Thursday.
The Football Ferns were the first to officially kick off the tournament at Eden Park in Auckland with a minute’s silence observed before the game for two people who died in a shooting incident in the city earlier in the day.
New Zealand were the brighter side in the first half against the 1995 world champions, having more possession and chances. It was however a goalless affair heading into the break. The floodgates finally opened three minutes after the restart when Hannah Wilkinson put the ball into the back of the net with a composed finish.
Jitka Klimkova’s ladies held firm from that moment to seal the three points to bag their first-ever World Cup win after 16 previous attempts without success. The victory gives the co-hosts a shot at progressing out of the group stage for the very first time should they defeat debutants the Philippines in their next game at Wellington Regional Stadium next Tuesday.
Your opening match day results wrap up ????#BeyondGreatness | #FIFAWWC
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In the second game of the day, Stephanie Catley’s goal was enough to give Australia maximum points against the Irish. Like in the opening game, the first half at Stadium Australia in Sydney was a drab affair but the Matildas were the dominant side and had their moment in the 52nd minute when Catley converted from the penalty spot.
Tony Gustavsson ladies, like neighbours down under New Zealand, can move into the round of 16 if they see off the Super Falcons of Nigeria at Lang Park in Brisbane next Thursday.
