Women’s World Cup Preview – Group B

NORWAY – 25/1

Norway won Group Five of the European Qualifiers and only a 2-0 defeat to fellow World Cup competitors Holland prevented them having a perfect campaign. Nevertheless, Norway topped the group, scoring 41 goals and only conceding five along the way.

Ever-present at the World Cup Finals, Norway have never failed to qualify in seven attempts. With an impressive record of runners-up in 1991, winners in 1995 and fourth place in both 1999 and 2007, others sides can be sure that Norway will be again a threat with the trophy in mind.

Experienced trio Trine Bjerke Ronning, Ingvild Stensland and Ingrid Hjelseth are still very much at their peak and bring valuable experience to Even Pellerud’s squad. Spearheading the team is the Prolific Striker Isabell Herlovsen, and with newcomers Ada Hergerberg and Emile Havvi adding their talents to aid the cause, their opponents should not take Norway lightly.

The first time that 61 year old Pellerud took charge of Norway, she led them to successful campaigns in 1991 and 1995. The former midfielder then returned to the international stage in 2012 after spells in the men’s game with Lillestrom of Norway and Ikast of Denmark, followed by stints with the Canada and Trindad and Tobago national women’s sides.

ONE TO WATCH – ISABELL HERLOVSEN

The 26 year old former Lyon striker made her debut ten years ago and is the daughter of Former Borussia Monchengladbach defensive midfielder Kai Erik Herlovsen. Herlovsen, with 100 caps and 41 goals for the Grasshoppers, is more than capable of scoring, and with the right service, the Norwegian will surely add more to her impressive record.

FIXTURES

7 JUNE      18:00       THAILAND                 Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa

11 JUNE     21:00       GERMANY                  Lansdowne Stadium, Ottawa

15 JUNE     21:00       IVORY COAST           Moncton Stadium, Moncton