Hannah Wilkinson’s goal was the difference in the second half as the co-hosts deservedly beat the 12th-ranked side in the opening match
Jacinda Ardern was among the first to congratulate the jubilant New Zealand squad after they claimed their first-ever Women’s World Cup victory on Thursday.
The former New Zealand prime minister joined the Football Ferns in the dressing room at the country’s iconic Eden Park venue shortly after the co-hosts’ surprise 1-0 victory over Norway in the tournament’s opening fixture.
The 42-year-old, who stood down as prime minister in January after six years in power, had played a part in the nation’s joint bid to host the event alongside neighbours Australia. It is the first time the women’s edition of the tournament has been held in the southern hemisphere.
New Zealand’s current prime minister, Chris Hipkins, was also in attendance at Eden Park and joined in the emotional celebrations – captain Ali Riley was in tears at full-time.