New Zealand Narrowly Beat Norway 1-0 in WWC Opener

The first 3 points at the FIFA Women’s World Cup go to co-hosts New Zealand.

In a tightly fought content, a goal from Hannah Wilkinson separated the two sides. It could have been worse for Norway, after conceding a penalty for handball just on the edge of the box. VAR was called into action, with the decision being announced to the crowd, the first time this process has been trialled.

Norway had a glimpse of hope for coming back into the match after New Zealand’s Percival hit the upright with her penalty. Despite having an additional nine minutes at the end of the 90, Norway were unable to take their chances.

Caroline Graham Hansen looked very lively for Norway, hitting the bar and running past New Zealand defenders at ease. However, it was not Norway’s night and New Zealand picked up the first three points in Group A in what many would describe as a shock win.