The 2023 Women’s World Cup is underway, and the hosts couldn’t have asked for a better start. New Zealand and Australia both recorded 1-0 victories over strong opposition, giving them great odds of advancing to the Round of 16 already.
New Zealand, ranked 26th internationally, opened the tournament against Norway, ranked 12th. Neither team scored in the first 45 minutes, but just three minutes after the half, New Zealand’s Hannah Wilkinson capitalized after a quick counterattack. For the next 45 minutes, both sides looked threatening, with goalkeepers Victoria Esson and Aurora Mikalsen making some fine saves.
New Zealand had a big chance to double its lead when a penalty was awarded in the 90th minute. However, Ria Percival’s strong shot hit the crossbar, and the game ended 1-0. This was a historic moment for the Football Ferns, who, after 15 winless matches in the tournament, won their first World Cup game at home in Auckland.
New Zealand will likely be through to the Round of 16 if they win one of their next two matches, while another loss would likely send Norway home. The other two Group A teams, Switzerland and the Philippines, will play tomorrow.
Australia, ranked 10th, arrived at this tournament with high expectations, and, despite missing star forward Sam Kerr, they delivered in their opener. They faced off against heavy underdogs Ireland, who, despite being ranked 22nd, are in their first major tournament.
Ireland’s inexperience showed in the 50th minute when Marissa Sheva pushed down Australian forward Hayley Raso in the box, with captain Steph Catley converting the penalty. The game got a bit chippy from there, with both sides reacting to rough fouls. The Irish pushed forward, but were unable to find the equalizer.
With Kerr missing Australia’s next game as well, Australia will need to increase their offensive productivity. Manchester City’s 20-year-old forward Mary Fowler will be key, having created many chances against Ireland. Ireland, meanwhile, played well but now needs results in their next two matches. The other two Group B teams, defending Olympic Champions Canada and Nigeria, will play tomorrow.
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Image Courtesy of LittleBlinky, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.