Navigation for News Categories

Sarina Bolden celebrates the goal she scored for the Philippines agsinst the Football Ferns in Wellington. Photo: Getty Images / Catherine Ivill

Football Ferns - Figure 1
Photo RNZ

The Football Ferns have fallen behind to a Sarina Bolden goal scored in the 23rd minute for the Philippines at Wellington Regional Stadium this evening.

The Ferns are looking to take a massive step towards the cup's knockout stage if they can beat the Philippines in their Group A match.

The Ferns say they have refocused and are ready to build on what they achieved during their historic win over Norway in Auckland last Thursday. No senior NZ football team - men or women - has ever advanced to the knockout section of a World Cup.

Football Ferns - Figure 2
Photo RNZ

New Zealand is ranked 20 places higher in the world than the Philippines, who lost 0-2 to Switzerland in their tournament opener.

Follow the match with live updates from Jamie Wall - kickoff is at 5.30pm:

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs

Football Ferns - Figure 3
Photo RNZ

We have regular online commentary of local and international sport.