Norway largely dominated Northern Ireland (4-1) on Thursday in Southampton, during the first day of the group stage of the Women’s Euro.
Effective from the start of the game, the Norwegians dislodge England, winner the day before Austria (1-0) at the start of the competition, from the top of Pool A, thanks to goal difference.
The Scandinavians made the difference in the first period, thanks to goals from Julie Blakstad (10th), Frida Maanum (13th), who took advantage of a missed recovery from the opposing defense, and Caroline Graham Hansen (31st). The Northern Irish reduced the score shortly following the recovery by Julie Nelson (49th) but Guro Reiten annihilated their hopes by finding the opening five minutes later with a nicely kicked free kick.
In the fight for first place, the Norwegians will challenge the English on Monday in Brighton (9:00 p.m.) while Northern Ireland will face Austria.
afp/jfk
