Football: Football Ferns lock in friendlies against Norway, Wales for June international window

  • 05/05/2022

The Football Ferns have locked in two friendlies, and will face Norway and Wales during the June international window.

On June 26, Jitka Klimkova's side will face Norway in Oslo, before travelling to Spain where they'll meet Wales in Pinatar on June 29. 

Norway are currently ranked No.11 in the world, while Wales are 31st.

The Football Ferns celebrate.
The Football Ferns celebrate. Photo credit: Image - Getty Images

The fixtures are a boost for the Football Ferns, giving New Zealand vital match practice against top-level opposition, after losing twice to Australia last month.

"These games present a great opportunity to continue to learn about our player pool, build a stronger culture within the squad, and play games in Europe where many of our players are based and won't have to endure long-haul travel," Klimkova said.

"We realised in Australia that if we stay connected on and off the field we can compete against any opponent in the world.

"As we continue our preparations for the opening match of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, we're delighted to have these high-calibre opposition confirmed." 

The Football Ferns have played Norway eight times in their history, winning twice, drawing twice and losing four times, most recently meeting in 2020 for a 2-1 defeat.

Meanwhile, New Zealand and Wales have faced off just twice in their history, winning 2-0 back in 2011, and losing 1-0 in the build-up to the 2019 Women's World Cup.