HAMILTON, New Zealand (Reuters) – Switzerland had goalkeeper Gaelle Thalmann to thank for securing a valuable 0-0 draw against Norway, who recovered from a shaky start after Ada Hegerberg’s withdrawal but could not find a breakthrough in the Women’s World Cup Group A match.
Norway coach Hege Riise rang the changes in an attempt to revive the team’s fortunes after the former champions suffered a shock opening defeat by New Zealand. Caroline Graham Hansen, Ingrid Syrstad Engen and Julie Blakstad were dropped and replaced by Emilie Haavi, Amalie Eikeland and Vilde Boa Risa.
They were dealt a huge blow seconds before kickoff, however, when Ballon d’Or winner Hegerberg, who has 42 international goals, sustained a groin injury in the pre-match warm-up and was replaced by Sophie Roman Haug.
Switzerland had the upper hand in the opening stages, but a shaken Norway side soon regained their composure and had the best chance of the half through Haug, whose storming header was saved by Thalmann in the 25th minute.
Thalmann denied Roman Haug again after the restart by palming away the forward’s powerful drive before Swiss midfielder Ramona Bachmann swept her effort just wide.
Riise brought on Graham Hansen, who earned her 100th cap, on the hour mark and the midfielder nearly broke the deadlock with 15 minutes remaining. Thalmann made an excellent double save, denying both Graham Hansen and Frida Maanum.
Switzerland, who beat Philippines 2-0 in their Group A opener, sit top of the table with four points. They need only a point from their final group game against co-hosts New Zealand to progress to the knockout stages.
Norway, who are bottom with one point, have now gone four matches without scoring at a major tournament and will need a win against Philippines to keep their hopes alive.
(Reporting by Hritika Sharma in Hyderabad, ediiting by Pritha Sarkar)
