New Zealand’s campaign at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup came to an end following their 0-0 draw wit Switzerland at the Forsyth Bar Stadium in Dunedin.

The tournament Co-Host New Zealand knew they had to win this game if they were to make it into the round of 16 stage and with Norway leading 3-0 at half time against the Philippines in the other group game going on simultaneously, their task got harder.

Despite a strong first half performance from the Co-host, they just couldn’t find the desired breakthrough to help their course of reaching the next stage as Switzerland remained resolute and determined not to cave in.

It was pretty much same of the same in the second half as both teams cancelled themselves out – with Switzerland remaining compact to see the game through and take their spot in the Round of 16 stage while New Zealand paid the prize for not beating the Philippines in their second game.

Elsewhere, Norway were just too good for the Philippines, beating the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup debutants 6-0 at the Eden Park in Auckland.

As early as the 6th minute, Sophie Roman Haug broke the deadlock with a sensational volley. The goal is certainly up there amongst the best since since the tournament began and a contender for the goal of the tournament as well.

17 minutes in, Sophie Roman Haug got hers and Norway’s second, this time she scored with a very good header. Her Striker partner, Caroline Hansen, starting for the first time in the tournament, made it three after 31 minutes with a stunning strike from outside the box.

It got even worse for the debutants as Norway extended their advantage two minutes after the restart. An unfortunate own goal from the Philippines’ Alicia Barker made it 4 for the Europeans.

Soon afterwards and in the 53rd minute, Norway were five goals to the good. Guro Reiten won a penalty and duly converted it much to her delight.

The not so pleasant day contined for the Philippines as they were reduced to 10 after Sofia Harrison was shown a red card10 minutes after coming off the bench to replace Isabella Flannigan in the 67th minute.

Sophie Roman Haug ended the contest with a sixth for Norway and her third in added time as Norway sealed their place in the next round of the tournament ahead New Zealand who failed to beat Switzerland in their must win encounter.