Ford Futsal Ferns Face China in Three-Match Series Ahead of Historic World Cup

Preparation Heats Up for FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup

The Ford Futsal Ferns have locked in a crucial three-match series against China in Hohhot, northern China, as part of their preparations for the inaugural FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup later this year.

The highly anticipated clashes will take place on April 9, 11, and 13, with all matches kicking off at 11:30 PM NZT (7:30 PM local time) at the Hohhot Sports Centre.

Squad Announcement

Head coach Nic Downes has named a 14-player squad featuring a blend of homegrown talent and international experience. Eight players are based in Aotearoa New Zealand, while six ply their trade in Australia, England, and Japan.

Full squad list:

• Sarah Alder – Capital Futsal, NZ
• Shivanthi Anthony – ASV Pescadola Machida, Japan
• Libby Boobyer – Capital Futsal, NZ
• Danielle Bradley – Melbourne Evolution FC, Australia
• Jordana Bremner – Papakura City x NRF, NZ
• Jamie Evans – Waikato Rapids, NZ
• Ellena Firth – Papakura City x NRF, NZ
• Fran Grange – Capital Futsal, NZ
• Hannah Hegarty – Canterbury United Pride, NZ
• Hannah Kraakman – Bloomsbury Futsal, England
• Dayna Manak – Bloomsbury Futsal, England
• Britney-Lee Nicholson – Canterbury United Pride, NZ
• Cat Pretty – Bloomsbury Futsal, England
• Sophie Williams – Melbourne Evolution FC, Australia

Schedule Adjustment for Ford Futsal SuperLeague Finals

With several squad members also participating in the Ford Futsal SuperLeague, the competition’s finals have been rescheduled. The event will now take place on Saturday, April 26, at the Pullman Arena in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

This series against China marks a pivotal moment for the Ford Futsal Ferns as they fine-tune their squad and strategies ahead of their historic debut in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup.