Minister of Sport and Recreation, Grant Robertson, has congratulated the Football Ferns on an inspirational performance at last night’s opening match of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, after the team chalked up a historic win against Norway.
“The Football Ferns’ 1-0 win against Norway was an historic moment for everyone in the stands at Eden Park to witness,” said MR Robertson.
“The team played with class, composure and determination to win our first ever World Cup match and start New Zealand’s campaign off on a high.
“It was an incredible atmosphere last night, with a record 42,137 football fans at Eden Park. This was an historic win. As Football Ferns captain Ali Riley said ‘We have had a clear goal to inspire young girls around the country, anything is possible. We believed in ourselves from the very beginning, this is what dreams are made of.’
In a post on Facebook following the win last night, Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said the victory was momentous for the New Zealand side.
“We’re always seen as the underdogs and for us we’ve always taken it in our stride and we’ll do exactly the same looking at the first game” – that’s what Football Fern’s co-captain Ria Percival said earlier this week,” the Prime Minister wrote.
“Tonight was just another example of why you should never underestimate Kiwis. An incredible team and an incredible game!”
Minister Robertson said last night’s match showed why New Zealanders should snap up tickets to a match near them before to be part of the action.
“It’s not every day we have the opportunity to watch some of the world’s best football players in action right here in our own backyard.”
“There is going to be so much amazing talent on display by all teams over the next month, with a further 28 matches taking place in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Dunedin. I wish all the teams the best for their upcoming games,” he said.
