Norway secured a spot in the knockout stages of the Women’s World Cup with a 6-0 victory over the Philippines at Eden Park. Sophie Roman Haug scored a hat-trick, while Caroline Graham Hansen and Guro Reiten also found the back of the net. Despite their first World Cup win over New Zealand, the Philippines finished at the bottom of Group A. Norway coach Hege Riise expressed her satisfaction with the team’s performance, stating that they delivered when it mattered most.
Norway displayed their determination from the beginning of the match. They took the lead in the sixth minute with a sensational volley from Roman Haug. She added another goal in the 17th minute with a powerful header. Graham Hansen extended Norway’s lead with a goal from outside the box in the 31st minute. The Philippines’ situation worsened when Alicia Barker scored an own goal in the second half, followed by Reiten converting a penalty.
Philippines coach Alen Stajcic acknowledged Norway’s early dominance and praised his team’s fighting spirit. Roman Haug completed her hat-trick with a well-placed header in stoppage time. Graham Hansen emphasized the team’s unity and the joy they experienced in the second half.
Norway finished second in Group A behind Switzerland, who drew with New Zealand. Both Norway and Switzerland will face either Spain or Japan in the last 16.
