Hege Riise’s team needed to recover after suffering a shocking loss to co-hosts New Zealand on the first day of the tournament, but they were unable to score for the second consecutive game.
Moments before the game began, they lost their best player Ada Hegerberg, who was listed on the squad sheet. The six-time Champions League champion was seen limping down the tunnel amid allegations that she had hurt her groin during the warm-up in Hamilton.
After Caroline Graham Hansen, another really talented player, was left off the starting lineup.
Maren Mjelde, the captain of Norway, missed a close-range shot, while Sophie Haug, Hegerberg’s replacement, saw her header blocked by Switzerland goalkeeper Gaelle Thalmann.
On a damp field, Switzerland, which defeated the Philippines 2-0 in their opening game, had opportunities of their own.
After finding space, Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic narrowly missed with a shot, while Nadine Riesen’s difficult cross was just about stopped by goalkeeper Aurora Mikalsen.
On the other end, Haug forced Thalmann to make another excellent save in the second half before substitute Graham Hansen saw his shot blocked on a night that was really frustrating for Norway since they were unable to score.
To have a chance of advancing, Norway must overcome the Philippines in their last group match on Sunday at 8:00 BST in Auckland.
Switzerland, who leads the group with four points, plays New Zealand in Dunedin at the same time.
The two-time European champions, Norway, were predicted to advance far in this competition but now they face the possibility of leaving early.With nine victories out of ten, Riise’s team cruised through qualifying. However, much like at Euro 2022, they have faltered when it counts.
While against New Zealand at Eden Park they were disorganized and unimpressive, they at least posed more of an attacking threat against Switzerland as they created 12 chances without scoring the crucial goal.
When Hegerberg emerged from the tunnel just before kickoff, many Norway supporters at the Waikato Stadium were taken aback.
The forward for Lyon, who is a prolific scorer, participated in the warm-up and entered the field prepared for the match.
Switzerland is in good position to advance to the round of 16 with one group game remaining following a diligent performance.
After placing second to Italy in qualifying, they were able to advance to the World Cup only because to a victory over Wales in a play-off.
However, they will be hopeful that they can defeat New Zealand and advance to the knockout rounds once more.
Lia Walti’s readiness for the start of the competition was in doubt after she suffered a major injury while playing for Arsenal in May.
Walti has displayed vigor in both games and has contributed to her team’s strong start in New Zealand.
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