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Everything is already at stake for Norway in the second game at the Women’s World Cup in Hamilton. Curse or blessing for the Swiss national team?
The opponent
Norway is number 12 in the world rankings. With Caroline Graham Hansen, Ada Hegerberg and Guro Reit, the “Gresshoppene” have actors with the title of world class. However, the world champion of 1995 did not appear like a world champion. They failed in the group phase at last year’s European Championships, but now the start of the World Cup has gone horribly wrong with a 1-0 defeat against co-hosts New Zealand.
the initial situation
Because New Zealand and the Philippines are already competing in Group A, the national team knows before their own appearance whether they could qualify for the round of 16 early. That’s the case when the Philippines don’t win, but Switzerland does.
The Swiss voices
- Geraldine Reuteler: “We’re well prepared, it’s going to be a very cool game for sure,” said the midfielder, who was convincing against the Philippines. She is aware that with her 3rd participation in a major tournament she also has a role model function: “I already have more experience and try to take on as much responsibility as possible on the pitch, to communicate a lot.” She can count on her family: her parents and two younger brothers have come.
- Inca Grings: “For me, they are still a top favorite, especially in terms of the individual players,” says the coach about Norway’s false start. Grings expects a “very aggressive” opponent, “it’s their last chance.” With a lot of courage and passion there is still a positive result for the national team. You can learn a lot from the New Zealanders, and yet: “It’s damn important that we concentrate on ourselves!” You expect a “different intensity” than against the Philippines.
The Gretchen Questions
How does Norway react to the surprising defeat in the opening game against New Zealand? It is conceivable that Switzerland will suffer against the angry Norwegians. But it is also clear that a failed tournament start is a mental burden.
Then there are the personnel issues to be clarified: Barcelona legionnaire Graham Hansen has been suffering from a cold for the past few days, but completed the final training session on Monday. According to Norwegian Radio NRK the reigning Champions League winner should first sit on the bench. From a Swiss point of view, it is unclear whether Viola Calligaris, who was recently absent due to muscular problems, will return to the team.
The Venue
While the Swiss duel with the Philippines took place in Dunedin (as will be the case in the last preliminary round match against co-hosts New Zealand), this time Hamilton is the venue. Unsurprisingly, Waikato Stadium is primarily home to two rugby teams: the Chiefs and the Waikato Rugby Union. There is space for around 26,000 fans. The Waikato River, at 425 km the longest river in New Zealand, flows nearby.