Caroline Graham Hansen shines as Norway secures a convincing 4-0 victory over Northern Ireland, moving closer to the Euro 2025 finals with a strong performance in Larne.
Norway was expected to win against Northern Ireland, and they did not disappoint. They secured a 4-0 victory in the first leg of the play-off. Hansen was a standout player, making her mark early in the game.
She scored the first goal just seven minutes in, which set the tone for the rest of the match. Hansen’s second goal came from a clever play with teammate Guro Reiten, showcasing her speed and precision.
Norway has had a mixed history in recent tournaments. After finishing second in the Euros in 2013, they struggled in the World Cup and previous Euro finals. Now, with new coach Gemma Grainger, they aim to reclaim their status as a top team.
The squad features many talented players, including Chelsea’s Reiten and Arsenal’s Frida Maanum. Despite injuries, former Ballon d’Or winner Ada Hegerberg remains a key player. However, Hansen’s performance continues to stand out.
Grainger praised Hansen’s all-around game, noting her defensive skills as well as her attacking prowess. She emphasized that Hansen’s leadership is crucial for the team’s success.
Hansen has a strong record against Northern Ireland, scoring many of her international goals against them. She expressed satisfaction with her performance and acknowledged the importance of her early goal in shaping the game.
Looking ahead, Hansen believes there is room for improvement. She noted that while they scored four goals, they could have done even better. The team aims to maintain their momentum in the second leg of the play-off in Oslo.
After a challenging year, Norway is focused on consistency. Hansen is optimistic about finishing the year strong and is excited for the upcoming match.
Grainger also appreciated the support from Northern Ireland fans, highlighting the importance of growing the game. She hopes that their performance inspires young fans and helps them fall in love with football.
If Hansen and her teammates continue to perform at this level, they are well on their way to achieving their goals.
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