New Zealand’s Football Ferns might go into Wednesday’s game as underdogs against world champions United States but they’re promising to show “the spirit of the Ferns” and put up a strong fight.
As the two-match series approaches, head coach Jitka Klimková told media:
“We set our goals for this tour as a team and there is really not a goal about talking about the results.
“We really want to show how the spirit of the Ferns … I really believe you will see tomorrow a fight.”
Main photo: Football Ferns coach Jitka Klimkova. Credit: 1News.
Captain Ali Riley said: “Yes, we are underdogs. There’s no denying it, but we see every challenge as an opportunity not an obstacle.
“The US is not our opposition in the World Cup.
“This team, this staff, is doing everything that they can to make sure that we do our country proud every single time we step on the field. And if that’s not a team you can get behind then I’m sorry for you.”
The Ferns are relishing the prospect of playing at Wellington’s Sky Stadium in front of a crowd expected to exceed 10,000.
READ MORE: Record likely as more than 10,000 expected for Ferns game against United States >>>>
“To really see that we’re supported and just feel Kiwis around us I think is important for this camp,” midfielder Olivia Chance told Newshub.
Fixtures
Game to be played on Wednesday January 18, 2023
New Zealand v United States
Sky Stadium, Wellington, 4pm (NZT)
Game to be played on Saturday January 21, 2023
New Zealand v United States
Eden Park, Auckland, 4pm (NZT)
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Crowds on the waterfront
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