The draw for the inaugural FIFA Women’s Futsal World Cup to be played in the Philippines this November has been revealed, with New Zealand handed a tough draw placed in Group C.
Following last year’s triumph over Fiji in the final of the OFC Futsal Women’s Nations Cup in the Solomon Islands, the Futsal Ferns who are ranked 21, have been drawn to face world number 3 ranked Portugal, 5th ranked Japan and Tanzania. (ranked 82)
Their journey begins with a blockbuster opener against Japan at 5pm NZT on Saturday 23 November in Manila. They then face Tanzania under the lights at 8:30pm on Wednesday 26 November.
Group play concludes with a match against European powerhouse Portugal at 5pm NZT on Saturday 29 November.
Only the top two teams from each group will progress to the quarter-finals, adding extra spice to every game.
Elsewhere in the draw:
- Group A: Philippines, Poland, Morocco, Argentina
- Group B: Spain, Thailand, Colombia, Canada
- Group D: Brazil, Iran, Italy, Panama
The tournament kicks off on Friday 21 November with Morocco v Argentina, before building to the final on Sunday 8 December.
The countdown is on for the Oceania champions to make their mark on the world stage.
Photo Credit cover image ( Patrick Francis Silva Reyes/LOC)