Three more of our Gunners are through to the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup as Norway and Switzerland both progressed from Group A.
Heading into this game, Norway’s fate was somewhat out of their hands - needing a win but also relying on Switzerland to hold New Zealand to at least a draw.
The Norwegians answered the call, storming to a deafening 6-0 victory against the Philippines.
They made an early breakthrough through Frida Maanum’s hard work and spirit, driving at the Philippines' defence and winning back the ball at the edge of the area. It then fell to Thea Bjelde whose soaring cross found Sophie Roman Haug at the far post and she finished with aplomb.
The floodgates soon opened and Norway rapidly added two more to their tally through Haug and Caroline Graham Hansen. In the second half, Maanum whipped an inviting cross across the face of goal which led to Norway’s fourth as Alicia Barker put the ball into her own net.
Over in Dunedin, Switzerland came head-to-head with co-hosts New Zealand who inflicted a surprise defeat on Norway in the opening match of the tournament.
Lia Walti and Noelle Maritz kept the spirited New Zealand side at bay and the goalless draw was all they needed to qualify as Group A winners.
The Swiss have yet to lose or concede a goal in the tournament so far. They’ll face either Spain or Japan in the first knockout game on August 5.
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