The Football Ferns have arrived in the South Island determined to write another chapter in their already historic FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 campaign. Securing their first win in the opening game checked one goal off the list, getting a result in their last group game will ensure they can tick off another: making the round of 16 for the first time. And what better setting than a packed out Dunedin Stadium – marking the first time the Ferns have played in Ōtepohi Dunedin.

Standing in their way today are world-ranked 20 team Switzerland.

This will be Switzerland’s second game in Ōtepohi Dunedin, having opened their tournament with a 2-0 win over Philippines. The Europeans, currently top of Group A, need just a point to ensure qualification for the round of 16, and are yet to concede a goal at this World Cup.

For the Ferns to guarantee qualification for the round of 16, we need to beat Switzerland. A draw might be enough, depending on the result of the other Group A game, between Philippines and Norway at Eden Park.

What’s our record against Switzerland?

This will be the sixth time the Ferns have taken on Switzerland, with the Ferns enjoying a 4-1 win-loss record so far. Fun fact: In the last two games the Ferns have played Switzerland, Hannah Wilkinson has scored.

Jitka Klimková on the challenge that lies ahead

“Switzerland is a very strong opposition, tough opposition. We know they are going to be very organized defensively. They are good with their one-v-one defending. We will see a lot of movement on the field when they have the ball, their speed of play is high, and they have very good, threatening players in front. We are prepared for them.

“Hearing the fans behind us and celebrating all those little wins with us is so important for this team and it's pushing us. It's the 12th player on the field, that's no doubt about it. Please come, please be loud, and enjoy this beautiful opportunity with this team.”

Vic Esson on how the squad is preparing for the game

“We’re excited for the game. Coming off our last training session the vibes were good, some great goals scored and we can’t wait to get into the game.

“Everyday we spend together we’re getting stronger as a team, everyone’s enjoying being in the environment. It’s obviously a results-based tournament, but we’re getting stronger every training session. And as I said, the vibes were good in training, and I do think that can reflect in our performance.”

Team news

Klimková confirmed that she has the full squad of 23 to choose from.

Get to know Switzerland

Switzerland are in just their second FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign, having first qualified for the tournament in 2015 and making the round of 16.

Captain and Arsenal player Lia Wälti is key for the Swiss in midfield, while PSG's Ramona Bachman is vital up front, and has already netted once in this World Cup.

With a home tournament in the near future for the Swiss, as they prepare to host the 2025 European Championships, the side will be determined to show what they can do before they have the opportunity to harness home support in the way they’ll see it demonstrated at Dunedin Stadium for the Ferns.

Article added: Sunday 30 July 2023