نيوزيلندا تفاجئ النرويج في انطلاقة تاريخية لكأس العالم للسيدات 2023 FIFA

“New Zealand Stuns Norway in Historic Upset to Kick Off 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup”

In a thrilling start to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the New Zealand women’s soccer team created history by securing their first-ever World Cup victory. The underdog New Zealand squad managed to upset the heavily favored Norway with a stunning 1-0 win in the opening match.

The momentous game began with a poignant moment of silence to honor the victims of a tragic shooting incident that occurred just miles away from the venue, Eden Park, in Auckland. Despite the unsettling incident, New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins reassured the public that the tournament would proceed as planned, with authorities confident that it posed no national security risk.

The match between the 26th-ranked New Zealand and the 12th-ranked Norway drew an unprecedented crowd of over 42,100 spectators, setting a new attendance record for any soccer game in the history of New Zealand, be it men’s or women’s.

The intense contest remained a deadlock until the 48th minute, when New Zealand’s Hannah Wilkinson scored an electrifying goal from close range, assisted by her teammate Jacqui Hand. Although New Zealand had a chance to further extend their lead with a penalty kick in the 90th minute, Ria Percival’s shot hit the crossbar, keeping the score at 1-0.

This remarkable victory marks a turning point for New Zealand’s soccer legacy, as the nation has long been recognized more for its rugby prowess than its achievements in football. With the Women’s World Cup now in full swing, fans are eagerly anticipating the performance of the top-ranked U.S. Women’s National Team, seen as strong contenders for a third consecutive championship title.

As the tournament unfolds over the next month, 32 teams will compete in over 60 matches across 10 venues in Australia and New Zealand, showcasing the passion and talent of women’s football on the global stage.