In yet another clash of teammates at the 2023 Women's World Cup, Switzerland and Norway shared a goalless draw at the Waikato Stadium on Tuesday.
Lia Walti, Frida Maanum and Noelle Maritz all featured for the full 90 minutes but neither side was able to break the deadlock. Previous World Cup winners Norway now find themselves in serious danger of exiting the competition before the knockout stages, as they occupy last place in Group A.
The Norwegians were dealt a surprising blow minutes before kick-off as 2018 Ballon d'Or winner Ada Hegeberg walked back down the tunnel following the team's huddle.
As Switzerland captain, Walti led her country by example with a fantastic display in midfield - occupying space all over the pitch and neutralising the Norwegian attack before it had time to flourish.
Maritz swapped her usual position of right back to play as a central defender for Switzerland and helped her side to a second clean sheet on the bounce.
On Norway's side, Maanum displayed her usual determination and regularly troubled the Swiss backline, but a stellar shift from goalkeeper Gaelle Thalmann meant that the Norwegian forwards finished the game frustrated and empty-handed.
Our trio's brief rivalry ended as soon as the final whistle blew, as they hugged and posed for a photo together.
Switzerland head into their final match of Group A unbeaten and at the top of the table. Co-hosts New Zealand are their next opponents.
Meanwhile, Norway must win against the Philippines on July 30 for a chance of making the last 16, but that fate may now be out of their hands.
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