Portal 13 Jul 2023 07:35 ET2 minute indicator
The USWNT is training in New Zealand for the first time ahead of the World Cup
The USWNT prepares to win their third consecutive world title upon arrival in New Zealand.
FIFA announced it was giving away 20,000 free tickets to Women’s World Cup matches in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Dunedin amid concerns about the slow pace of sales in New Zealand.
Co-hosts Australia have secured the lion’s share of the 1 million tickets sold to date, with the Matildas side seen as contenders for the tournament win.
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FIFA women’s football chief Sarai Bareman said attracting fans to New Zealand football stadiums is more difficult as the sport is less well known in the country, while the Football Ferns have yet to win a game in five previous appearances at the World Cup.
The official partner of this year’s flagship event, Xero, is offering 5,000 free tickets to games in New Zealand’s four host cities.
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern is also trying to generate interest.
“My feed will be dominated by a lot of football chats over the next few weeks – not because I’m an expert but because I’m so excited for New Zealand to be hosting such a big event…” she wrote in an Instagram post.
“There are still tickets available for some games across New Zealand [Auckland, Dunedin, Wellington and Hamilton] Whether you are an amateur enthusiast or an expert, this is your reminder to get online and get involved!”
New Zealand start their campaign against former champions Norway on July 20 in Auckland.