FIFA Women’s World Cup; Norway, Switzerland Shares The Points
Norway are fighting to stay in the Women’s World Cup after a draw against Switzerland left them bottom of Group A with one game to go.
After being on the receiving end of a shock defeat by co-hosts New Zealand on the opening day, Hege Riise’s side needed to respond but failed to score for the second straight game.
They lost Ada Hegerberg, who was named on the team sheet, moments before kick-off, reportedly to a groin injury in the warm-up in Hamilton.
This was after Caroline Graham Hansen, another huge talent, did not make the starting line-up.
Norway had their chances, with captain Maren Mjelde blazing over from close range before a header by Sophie Haug – Hegerberg’s replacement – was clawed away by Switzerland keeper Gaelle Thalmann.
Switzerland, 2-0 winners over the Philippines in their first match, had chances of their own on a wet surface.
Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic fired narrowly over after creating space, while Nadine Riesen’s awkward cross was just about kept out by keeper Aurora Mikalsen.
Haug forced a fine save from Thalmann in the second half before substitute Graham Hansen had an attempt turned behind, but, on a hugely frustrating night, Norway could not make the breakthrough.
Norway must defeat the Philippines in their final group game in Auckland on Sunday to stand any chance of going through.
It ended goalless
Nothing to separate Switzerland and Norway as they share the points. #BeyondGreatness | #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/5iGa6WYJuE
— The Super Strikaz (@thesuperstrikaz) July 25, 2023
At the same time Switzerland, who tops the group with four points, plays co-host New Zealand.
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