A Rosie White goal has helped the Football Ferns to victory this morning.
She made the most of a mix up at the back to score in the third minute, the only goal in the 1-0 win over Norway in Spain.
It was the first time since 1981 the team had beaten Norway, which is ranked 12th in the world.
The win was also the first over a higher-ranked opponent for the world No19 Football ferns since the 2015 1-0 victory over Brazil.
Coach Tom Sermanni said it was a "fantastic result" as the team enters crunch time in its preparations for the World Cup in France.
“Our discipline was excellent,” said Sermanni.
“We continued to work hard for each other and our courage to stay in the game and remain in front was superb. It was a phenomenal team performance.
White's goal was the key moment.
While Norway held the majority of possession, the Ferns defence remained resolute.
Abby Erceg, Rebekah Stott and Anna Green all delivered decisive interceptions to keep Norway out.
A one handed save by keeper Erin Nayler denied Guro Reiten in the 82nd minute and proved the other key moment.
“That goal was symptomatic of our performance.
"Other strikers might have given up or made a half-hearted attempt to get onto the through pass but Rosie kept persevering and there was a little mix up between the defender and the goalkeeper.
"She snuck in there like a good striker and produced a quality finish. It was a great reward for her determination.”
Sermanni said it was an encouraging performance but there is still plenty of room for improvement.
“We still have work to do. We will look back at the game clinically.
"Norway had a level of preparation ahead of us and we have tried to bring things together fairly late. We have nine weeks to go and it is vital that we utilise that time as best we can.
“This is good for our confidence. This week has been great in Spain. We have been able to get some quality time on the field and also a real quality international against a top side. When the US comes around we will need some time together to build on this performance.”
The Ferns will take on World No 1 USA, World No 4 England and Wales in their build up to the World Cup in France.
