The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup got underway on Thursday, with co-hosts New Zealand winning 1-0 over 1995 World Champions Norway in Group A at Eden Park in Auckland.
New Zealand who had never won a World Cup match in 15 appearances started on a good note piling pressure on Norway throughout the first half but to no avail as it ended 0-0.
With the home crowd behind them, the Football Fern came out firing in the second half, and they would soon score through Melbourne City FC attacker Hannah Wilkinson.
The 31-year-old side-footed home from six yards out to give the home team the lead and eventually the win.
Norway showed signs of a comeback but lacked quality in the final third, failing to break down New Zealand’s defense.
With 90 minutes already played, the Ferns were awarded a penalty to extend their lead after Tuva Hansen was found guilty of handling the ball in the box following a VAR review.
However, New Zealand’s Ria Percival missed the penalty after hitting the woodwork,.
Meanwhile, the co-hosts now top Group A with three points and will face the Philippines in their next match on Tuesday before concluding their group games against Switzerland.
