Women’s World Cup: Norway on brink of exit after draw with Switzerland

Group A favourites Norway are on the verge of exiting the Women’s World Cup at the group stage after a goalless draw against Switzerland.

Norway failed to score for the second successive match following their shock defeat to co-hosts New Zealand on the opening day.

The result leaves them rock bottom of the group with just one game remaining after the Philippines defeated New Zealand earlier in the day.

Norway had their opportunities to win the match, with Maren Mjelde and Sophie Haug going close.

Ana-Maria Crnogorcevic fired over at the other end before Nadine Riesen’s mishit cross was kept out by Norway goalkeeper Aurora Mikalsen.

In the second half, Haug’s shot was well saved by Swiss goalkeeper Gaelle Thalmann and Caroline Graham Hansen had a shot turned behind.

The failure to score means that Norway have to beat the Philippines on Sunday and hope that New Zealand fail to beat Switzerland.

For Switzerland, avoiding defeat will guarantee them a place in the second round and a win against the Football Ferns would lock in top spot in the group.

Cover Photo: Norway – day 8. Hammerfest, Norwegian flag.” by Anne & David (Use Albums) is marked with Public Domain Mark 1.0 .