Switzerland managed to secure a valuable 0-0 draw against Norway in a Women's World Cup Group A match in Hamilton, New Zealand on Tuesday.
Goalkeeper Gaelle Thalmann played a crucial role in preventing Norway from scoring, especially after their star player Ada Hegerberg had to withdraw due to a groin injury during the pre-match warm-up. Hegerberg, the Ballon d'Or winner, was replaced by Sophie Roman Haug.
In the early stages of the match, Switzerland had the upper hand, but Norway gradually regained their composure. Norway coach Hege Riise made strategic changes to the team, dropping players like Caroline Graham Hansen, Ingrid Syrstad Engen, and Julie Blakstad, and introducing Emilie Haavi, Amalie Eikeland, and Vilde Boa Risa.
Despite the changes, Switzerland's goalkeeper Thalmann was in top form and made some crucial saves. She denied Roman Haug's powerful header in the 25th minute and made another excellent save after the restart when faced with a powerful shot from the same forward.
Swiss midfielder Ramona Bachmann also came close to scoring but her effort went just wide.
Norway's coach Riise brought on Caroline Graham Hansen around the hour mark, who was earning her 100th cap for the national team. Graham Hansen nearly broke the deadlock with 15 minutes remaining, but Thalmann made an outstanding double save to deny both her and Frida Maanum.
With this draw, Switzerland now sit at the top of Group A with four points, having previously beaten the Philippines 2-0 in their opening match. They only need a draw in their final group game against co-hosts New Zealand to progress to the knockout stages.
On the other hand, Norway find themselves at the bottom of the group with just one point. They have struggled to find the net in major tournaments, going four matches without scoring. To keep their hopes alive in the tournament, they will need to secure a win against the Philippines in their final group game.
(With Reuters inputs)
