Fifa Women’s World Cup: Wilkinson strikes as New Zealand stun Norway to claim historic win in tournament opener
- Hannah Wilkinson’s first-half goal enough to give hosts victory in first game in Auckland
- Melbourne City star scores in 48th minute to give side first win in 6 World Cups
Hannah Wilkinson’s second-half goal gave New Zealand a shock 1-0 win over former champions Norway at Eden Park on Thursday, as the co-hosts kicked off the Fifa Women’s World Cup in style by claiming their first ever victory at the tournament.
The Football Ferns had failed to win a game at their five previous World Cup appearances but Wilkinson fired home from close range from Jacqui Hand’s pinpoint cross in the 48th minute to give them a lead they would not relinquish.
“I am so, so proud,” Ali Riley, the New Zealand co-captain, said. “We have been fighting for this for so long.”
Norway, champions in 1995, were disappointing and disjointed and rarely looked as if they would get back on level terms. Their best chance came from Tuva Hansen’s right-footed effort, which ricocheted back off the crossbar in the 81st minute.
New Zealand’s Ria Percival had the chance to put the game out of reach in the 90th minute but her penalty hit the crossbar, setting up a nervy finish.
Norway threw players forward in search of an equaliser but the stout Ferns’ defence held firm.
