New Zealand Football Unveils Women's National Team Roster for Upcoming Fixtures

Squad Set for Two Friendlies Against the United States

World Cup Preparations Intensify as New Zealand Targets Success on Home Soil

In anticipation of the highly anticipated FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, the New Zealand Football Federation (NZF) has released the roster for the upcoming international friendlies against the United States.

The matches, scheduled for January 19 and January 21 in Auckland and Wellington respectively, will provide a crucial test for the Football Ferns as they finalize preparations for the World Cup.

Head coach Jitka Klimková has named a squad of 23 players for the fixtures, including some of the team's most experienced and promising stars.

Key Players to Watch:

• Ali Riley (Defender): A veteran of over 150 caps, Riley is a cornerstone of the New Zealand defense and a respected leader on and off the pitch.
• Abby Erceg (Defender): Known for her physicality and aerial prowess, Erceg will be crucial in countering the attacking threat posed by the United States.
• Katie Bowen (Forward): A rising star for the Ferns, Bowen has scored 12 goals in 18 appearances for the national team and will be looking to make her mark against one of the world's top teams.
• Olivia Chance (Midfielder): A dynamic playmaker with an eye for goal, Chance will be tasked with orchestrating the Ferns' attack and creating scoring opportunities.

Fixtures and Ticket Information:

The two friendlies against the United States will take place as follows:

• January 19, 2023: Auckland, Eden Park
• January 21, 2023: Wellington, Sky Stadium

Tickets for both matches are now on sale through the NZF website. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to witness the Football Ferns in action as they prepare for the World Cup.

World Cup Preparations:

These friendlies serve as an integral part of New Zealand's preparations for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, which will be held on home soil from July 20 to August 20.

The Football Ferns have been drawn into Group A alongside Norway, Philippines, and Switzerland. They will be aiming to make a strong impact in front of their home crowd and progress to the knockout stages.

The World Cup represents a historic opportunity for New Zealand to achieve success on the global stage. The team will be hoping to build momentum and fine-tune their performances during the upcoming friendlies against the United States.

Follow the New Zealand Football Federation's official social media channels for the latest updates and announcements regarding the team and the upcoming matches.