Co-hosts Australia start FIFA Women’s World Cup with victory

ANKARA

Australia defeated Ireland 1-0 to start the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with a win on their home ground as the tournament kicked off Thursday.

After a foul, Australian captain Steph Catley scored the winning goal from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute during a Group B match in Sydney to bring three points to the tournament co-hosts.

The Australian women’s national football team, called the Matildas, will next meet Nigeria next Thursday in Brisbane.

In their next group fixture, Ireland will play against Canada on Wednesday in Perth.

Earlier Thursday, New Zealand beat Norway 1-0 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup opening game to take their first win in the tournament’s history.

The 2023 Women’s World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, will run through Aug. 20.

• 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup
• Australia
• Ireland
• Steph Catley