In a stunning upset, New Zealand defeated Norway 1-0 in the opening match of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The victory was New Zealand’s first in the tournament’s history, and it came against a Norwegian team that is considered one of the favorites to win the title.
New Zealand got off to a strong start and created several chances in the first half. However, it was not until the 48th minute that they were able to break through. Hannah Wilkinson scored the game-winning goal from close range after a well-worked team move.
An unforgettable night for @NZ_Football as they earn their first-ever #FIFAWWC win in front of a record crowd! 🥹🇳🇿#BeyondGreatness pic.twitter.com/Qz0WhsMmop
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 20, 2023
Norway pushed for an equalizer in the closing stages, but New Zealand’s defense held firm. The result was a historic victory for the New Zealand, who will now look to build on their momentum as they continue their campaign in the World Cup.
Captain Ali Riley after the winning the match at the press conference said that :
‘Anything is possible!’ Riley says
A tearful New Zealand captain Ali Riley says it’s hard to sum up what the victory means.
“We had a clear goal that we wanted to inspire young women and girls around the country and around the world and I think we’ve done that tonight. Anything is possible,” she said.
Riley said there were “a lot of doubters” but they believed in themselves and played with poise: “This is what dreams are made of!”
She also paid tribute to the first responders following the deadly attack in Auckland earlier in the day and says the team wanted to put on a performance to lift the nation.
“We wanted to help bring something amazing today.”
What the win means for New Zealand
The victory over Norway is a major breakthrough for New Zealand women’s football. It is the first time that the Kiwi have won a match in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and it will give them a huge boost of confidence as they continue their campaign.
The win also shows that New Zealand is a team that is on the rise. They have been steadily improving in recent years, and they are now one of the top teams in the world. This victory will only serve to raise their profile and make them a more feared opponent.
What. A. Moment! 🤩🇳🇿#BeyondGreatness | #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/kZNhtboKpA
— FIFA Women’s World Cup (@FIFAWWC) July 20, 2023
What the loss means for Norway
The loss to New Zealand is a major disappointment for Norway. They are one of the most successful teams in the history of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, having won the title in 1995. However, they have not been able to replicate that success in recent years, and this loss will only add to their frustration.
The loss to New Zealand will also raise questions about Norway’s future. They are a team that is in transition, and they are still looking for a new identity. This loss will only make that process more difficult.
What the future holds for New Zealand and Norway in the Tournament
The future looks bright for both New Zealand but no so for Norway. As to qualify to the next round Norway have to win both the group stage matches. On the other hand, New Zealand have shown that they are a team on the rise, and they will be a force to be reckoned with, As they need to win at-least one match to qualify to the next round depending about other team performance too. Norway may be in transition, but they are still a team with a lot of talent. With a little bit of luck, they could be back on track.
New Zealand vs Norway Final Results
| Team | 1st Half | 2nd Half | Final Score |
| New Zealand | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Norway | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Goal :
Hannah Wilkinson : 48 mins’
48 mins: GOAL! 1-0 New Zealand! Brilliant stuff, it’s a rapid break down the right and Wilkinson with the first time passed finish to spark wild celebrations at Eden Park. They’ve deserved that.