In an exciting opening match of the FIFA Women's World Cup, New Zealand defeats Norway.

 When Wilkinson scored in the 48th minute, the crowd erupted in celebration.

The co-hosts of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup put on a spellbinding display against Norway to earn their first-ever victory on the international stage. The game, which took place at Auckland's Eden Park, was full of memorable moments as the Football Ferns pulled off a stunning upset and lifted the spirits of the 42,137 jubilant spectators in attendance, a New Zealand football match attendance record.

A #FIFAWWC goal that @NZ_Football supporters will never forget.

Moments of beauty with @Xero

Before the game began, there was a moving moment of silence to remember the victims of a horrific shooting that had occurred in Auckland earlier in the day. Despite the sad opening, the anticipation and enthusiasm among fans were obvious as New Zealand took the pitch. Since being appointed as co-hosts alongside Australia in 2020, New Zealand had anxiously anticipated this moment.

By scoring on a cross from Jacqui Hand in the 48th minute to break the tie, New Zealander Hannah Wilkinson cemented her place in history. The home crowd's joy after their team's long-awaited triumph filled the stadium to the brim.After Wilkinson's goal, Norway, the 1995 world champions, attempted to mount a comeback but squandered a big chance when Frida Maanum of Arsenal pushed the ball wide. The tenacity of New Zealand was clearly on display as they fought their opponents tooth and nail the whole game.

Players Ria Percival and Ali Riley were obviously touched as they prepared to represent their country in their fifth World Cup participation during the national anthems, which added to the match's emotional moments.

Despite Norway's efforts to equalise, New Zealand's persistence and desire to claim their first World Cup triumph paid off. Tuva Hansen committed a handball that resulted in a penalty kick that Ria Percival missed in the 89th minute, but the home crowd didn't stop celebrating the historic victory.The defeat was a terrible disappointment for Norway, and Hege Riise, the team's manager, lamented the team's subpar performance. In order to prepare for their forthcoming encounter against Switzerland in Hamilton, the Norwegian team must now regroup.

FIFA predicted a global viewership of two billion for the inaugural match, highlighting the sport's rising popularity. The triumphant victory of New Zealand in front of a fervent home crowd set the tone for an electrifying Women's World Cup that was full of suspense, drama, and unforgettable moments. Fans from all around the world are looking forward to watching the greatest female players compete at the highest level and compete for glory on the biggest platform for international women's football as the tournament progresses.