Betsy Hassett joins injured list as coach Jitka Klimková reflects on Nigeria loss

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UPDATE: Midfielder Betsy Hassett has two broken ribs, having left the pitch during New Zealand’s 3-0 loss to Nigeria.

Head coach Jitka Klimková said coaching staff would “do the maximum to take care of her”.

Klitková was speaking after New Zealand’s second international friendly played in Turkey during the April international window.

READ MORE: Ferns’ winless streak extends to 10 games as they lose 3-0 to Nigeria >>>>

In her post-match interview, Klimková said of the Nigeria game”

“It was disappointing, specifically, in front of the goal.

“We were not greedy enough in our defensive third.

“We gave up a goal from the set play; we gave up a goal from the cross, then we were obviously pushing for a better result, took a risk, and went with three backs.

“They got in a chance in the last minute and scored, but for me, the biggest improvement, what we need to look for, is greedy defending in the box.

“Putting bodies on the line, the same way that they did; how many crosses they blocked, and how many times they won those battles in our final third.

“So the critical piece today was really in front of the goal, defensively, and in the attack.”

The New Zealand starting line-up against Nigeria.

The Ferns will regather in May for a training camp in New Zealand, and play a friendly against Vietnam in Napier.

“We are aware that there are 100 days to go, and I’m glad that in May and June, we committed to this camp that we will be together, we will be training together, we will be connecting with each other on the field, off the field more.” she said.

“When you go on those tours, you really have three days prior to the first game, and then you have to review and refocus for another game.

“It’s really more about preparation for the opposition that we are playing against. During two months, spending time with the team, that is what can really make a difference.

“We will see them almost every day and that can be a critical piece for our preparation.”

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