Football Ferns Make Historic World Cup Advancement against Switzerland
The Football Ferns, New Zealand’s national women’s football team, are on the brink of achieving a historic milestone in their World Cup campaign. They have the opportunity to advance to the knockout stages of a senior World Cup for the first time ever when they face Switzerland at Dunedin Stadium on Sunday.
To secure their progression, the Football Ferns must either win their match against Switzerland, secure a draw while Norway and the Philippines also draw at the same time at Eden Park, or secure a draw while Norway wins by one goal without scoring more goals than they do. After seven previous attempts by both men’s and women’s teams, the Football Ferns are determined to break the cycle of falling short and etch their name in the history books.
In the past, the Football Ferns have experienced heartbreak in their pursuit of advancement at World Cups. In previous campaigns such as the All Whites in 1982 and the Ferns in 1991, 2007, and 2011, their hopes were dashed before the final match of the group stage. However, in 2007, there was a slim chance of a Ferns victory coupled with a significant goal difference swing against hosts China or Denmark.
Reflecting on their recent World Cup journey, the Football Ferns found themselves in a decisive match against Cameroon at the Stade de la Mosson in Montpellier. The equation was simple: a victory would secure their spot in the round of 16. Despite Cameroon taking the lead with an Ajara Nchout strike, an own goal in the final 10 minutes gave the Ferns hope. However, in a dramatic turn of events, Nchout scored again deep into stoppage time, snatching victory from the Ferns’ grasp and setting up a clash with England in the knockout stage.
In the previous Women’s World Cup, the Football Ferns faced China in a must-win encounter. Being in front of their opponents for only the second time in 12 World Cup matches, the Ferns hoped for a favorable outcome. However, a contentious handball decision against Betsy Hassett resulted in a penalty for China, leveling the score at halftime. Wang Shanshan subsequently gave China the lead, and although Hannah Wilkinson managed to equalize, a draw was insufficient for the Ferns to progress in the tournament.
The All Whites, New Zealand’s men’s national football team, also had their fair share of World Cup campaigns that came down to decisive matches. In the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa, the All Whites drew considerable attention after impressive performances against Slovakia and Italy. Their fate hinged on their final group stage match against Paraguay. Despite a valiant effort and some notable saves by goalkeeper Mark Paston, the game ended in a goalless draw, leaving the All Whites reliant on the other match’s outcome. Unfortunately, Slovakia emerged victorious, denying the All Whites their ticket to the next stage.
As the Football Ferns gear up for their clash against Switzerland, the team boasts a talented roster of players, including goalkeepers Vic Esson, Anna Leat, and Erin Nayler, as well as defenders Liz Anton, CJ Bott, Katie Bowen, Claudia Bunge, Michaela Foster, Ali Riley, and Rebekah Stott. In midfield, Olivia Chance, Daisy Cleverley, Betsy Hassett, Annalie Longo, Ria Percival, and Malia Steinmetz will add depth and creativity to the team. The forward lineup comprises Milly Clegg, Jacqui Hand, Grace Jale, Gabi Rennie, Indiah-Paige Riley, Paige Satchell, and Hannah Wilkinson.
For the Football Ferns to secure their historic advancement, they must either draw with Switzerland while the Philippines and Norway also draw or draw with Switzerland while Norway defeats the Philippines by one goal, without scoring two more goals than the Ferns. The team is determined to give their all on the field and make New Zealand proud.
The match between the Football Ferns and Switzerland is set to take place at Dunedin Stadium on Sunday, with coverage available live on Sky Sport 1, Prime, and Stuff. Fans can also stay up to date with live updates on Stuff. As the nation holds its breath, hopes are high that the Football Ferns can break new ground and pave the way for future success in women’s football on home soil.
