The opening match of the 2023 Women’s World Cup was one for the record books in many ways for co-host nation, New Zealand.
Opening the tournament at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, the black ferns made their seventh appearance on the world’s stage. The host country’s fans were not optimistic for a win, but they
were ready for the show. New Zealand has previously participated in the World Cup in 1991, 2007, 2011, 2015, and 2019. If New Zealand advances, it will be their first time competing in the knockout stage of a World Cup.
Perhaps it was the nothing to lose mentality, or the let’s make our country proud mindset that helped New Zealand prove what everyone thought going into the tournament – this is going to be the most competitive tournament the women’s side has ever seen. Norway, ranked 12, and New Zealand, ranked 26,
An attempted bicycle kick from Norway evoked a reaction from the crowd, who was often excited by frequent through balls played to Hannah Wilkenson.
The post event victory lap of the stadium, followed by an emotional press conference by Ali Riley demonstrated what this win meant for the team and for the country.
New Zealand, the world is watching and you are making us all proud.
