NZ Remain Undefeated After A Confident 6-0 Win Over American Samoa, Sealing A Semi-Final Spot
Alana Gunns side finished group play with a confident 6-0 victory over a resolute American Samoa, sealing their semi-final berth in emphatic fashion.
New Zealand asserted their authority early, controlling possession and creating chances but initially struggled to break down a determined American Samoa defence.
The breakthrough finally came in the 26th minute when Ariana Vosper timed latched onto a through ball before showing composure to lift her finish over the goalkeeper.
The floodgates began to open as halftime approached, with substitute Madison Sharkey making an immediate impact by scoring just moments after entering the pitch, pouncing on a loose ball to double New Zealand's advantage.
New Zealand's persistence paid off again just before the interval when Eden Chaytor, who had earlier rattled the crossbar with a long-range effort, slotted home the rebound to cap off a dominant first half performance.
The defending champions continued to dominate possession in the second half, with Bonnie Rice and Lania Fili consistently finding space out wide, though the American Samoan defense remained resolute. Diane Justus' side were finding some space through their counters, but New Zealand's defence held firm.
The pressure finally told in the 63rd minute as Aleesha Gray slotted home a composed finish from inside the box. New Zealand added another two in quick succession with Charlotte Summers and Eden Chaytor firing home two goals, sealing victory for their side.
New Zealand's persistence paid off again just before the interval when Eden Chaytor, who had earlier rattled the crossbar with a long-range effort, slotted home the rebound to cap off a dominant performance.
New Zealand are set to meet New Caledonia in Monday's semi final, with the winner claiming a spot at next year's FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in Morocco.
HT: 0-3
American Samoa: 0
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