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Wellington Phoenix Players Make Impact at FIFA U-17 Women’s
Six Phoenix Players Represent New Zealand in Global Tournament
Six Wellington Phoenix players had the opportunity to showcase their talents on the world stage, representing New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, held in the Dominican Republic. The young Football Ferns faced stiff competition but gained invaluable international experience during the tournament.
Tough Opening Against Bronze Medalists Nigeria
New Zealand began their World Cup campaign with a challenging 4-1 defeat to Nigeria, the reigning bronze medalists. Despite the tough result, the Football Ferns showed resilience, with Phoenix players taking key roles in the lineup.
Alysha Eglinton, captain of the New Zealand side, led the team with determination, while her Wellington Phoenix teammates Ela Jerez, Emily Humphrey, Brooke Neary, and Katie Pugh all started the match. Grace Bartlett contributed from the bench as a second-half substitute. Notably, Jerez delivered an assist from a corner, which led to New Zealand’s sole goal.
Phoenix Players Shine Throughout Tournament
Eglinton, Jerez, Bartlett, and Pugh were pivotal for the Football Ferns, playing key roles in every match of the tournament. Their contribution highlighted the depth of talent within the Wellington Phoenix women’s ranks.
New Zealand’s second group game saw them earn a hard-fought 1-1 draw against the host nation, the Dominican Republic. The Football Ferns were unfortunate not to claim victory after hitting the woodwork multiple times. Another dangerous corner from Jerez led to an own goal, and Alysha Eglinton’s performance earned her the Player of the Match award.
Early Exit After Defeat to Ecuador
The U-17 Football Ferns were eliminated from the tournament following a 4-0 loss to Ecuador in their final group match. Although New Zealand exited at the group stage, the tournament provided these young players with essential international exposure and valuable lessons for future careers.
Wellington Phoenix Stars Return to Club Duties
After the World Cup, Ela Jerez returns to Wellington to join the Phoenix first-team squad, having secured a scholarship deal with the club in August. Her Phoenix teammates—Eglinton, Humphrey, Neary, Pugh, and Bartlett—will reunite with the reserves to continue their National League season.
For those looking to relive the tournament, highlights and replays of all FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup matches are available for free on FIFA+.
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Wellington Phoenix, U-17 Women’s World Cup, New Zealand Football Ferns, FIFA, Dominican Republic, National League, International Football
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