The Football Ferns have lost two players to injury in the lead-up to Saturday’s friendly international against the Korea Republic.
Midfielder Grace Wisnewski was set for her full international debut but a muscle injury has ruled her out of the game.
Striker Jacqui Hand has a knee problem, taking her out of the squad for the second time this year — she missed the Australia match in April due to COVID-19. Hand will have a scan on her knee on Monday to find out more about the extent of her injury.
About the Ferns’ opponents
South Korea are ranked 18th in the current FIFA world rankings, compared to New Zealand’s 22nd rating.
Last November, the teams shared the honours in a two-match series.
The Koreans are coached by Colin Bell, who has been in the role four years.
At the media conference, Klimková said Korea were “more direct than in the past’’ when they played a similar style to Japan.
“The Asian style is more about keeping the ball, keeping possession. Korea has started to play more long ball, that’s what we need to be aware of.”
Esson: ‘It’s always something I dreamed of’
Goalkeeper Vic Esson spoke to the media in the lead-up to Saturday’s match:
Fixture
Game to be played on Saturday November 12, 2022
New Zealand Football Ferns v Korea Republic
Orangetheory Stadium, Christchurch, 2.30pm
Watch: Live on Sky Sport channels 1 and 7
The Ferns in training camp
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