- Goalkeeper Thalmann Shines as Switzerland Holds Norway to a 0-0 Draw in Women’s World Cup
- Norway’s Struggle Continues After Ada Hegerberg’s Withdrawal and Opening Loss
- Switzerland Tops Group A with Four Points, Norway’s Hopes Hang on Crucial Philippines Match
Switzerland had goalkeeper Galle Thalmann to credit for a crucial 0-0 draw against Norway in Group A of the Women’s World Cup. Norway recovered from a shaky start following Ada Hegerberg’s withdrawal, but could not find the back of the net.
After a heartbreaking opening loss to New Zealand, previous champions coach Hege Riise made changes to improve the team’s performance. Caroline Graham Hansen, Ingrid Syrstad Engen, and Julie Blakstad were dismissed and replaced by Emilie Haavi, Amalie Eikeland, and Vilde Bøe Risa.
The 2018 Ballon d’Or recipient, Hegerberg, who has scored 42 international goals, suffered a groin injury during pregame warmups and was replaced by Sophie Román Haug.
Norway regained its composure and had the best opportunity of the first half in the 25th minute through Haug, whose ferocious header was saved by Switzerland’s custodian Thalmann.
After the resumption of play, Thalmann denied Haug once more by palming away the forward’s powerful shot. And then Swiss midfielder Ramona Bachmann narrowly missed the target.
Riise substituted Graham Hansen, who earned her 100th uniform, at the hour mark. And the midfielder came within 15 minutes of breaking the deadlock. However, Thalmann made two outstanding saves to deny Graham Hansen and Frida Maanum.
Switzerland, who opened Group A with a 2-0 victory over the Philippines, are also in first place with four points. To advance to the round of 16, they need a point against co-hosts New Zealand in their final group encounter.
Norway, with the fewest points in the tournament, must beat the Philippines to keep their hopes alive.
