New Zealand upset Norway in Women's World Cup opener

The co-hosts earned a surprise win to start their campaign on a high.

UP AND RUNNING: New Zealand's Hannah Wilkinson celebrates with teammates in Auckland. Picture: AP Photo/Andrew Cornaga

Hannah Wilkinson's second-half goal gave New Zealand a shock 1-0 win over former champions Norway at Eden Park on Thursday as the co-hosts claimed their first ever victory at a Women's World Cup.

The Football Ferns had failed to win a game at their five previous World Cup appearances but Wilkinson fired home from close range from Jacqui Hand's pinpoint cross in the 48th minute to give them the lead.