The National Times - Norway's Hegerberg pulls out of World Cup game just before kick-off

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Norway's Hegerberg pulls out of World Cup game just before kick-off

SPORTS 25.07.2023

Norway's Hegerberg pulls out of World Cup game just before kick-off / Photo: © AFP

Star forward Ada Hegerberg pulled out of Norway's Women's World Cup game against Switzerland on Tuesday moments before kick-off, walking back down the tunnel and being replaced in the starting line-up.

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The former Ballon d'Or winner had lined up for the national anthems in Hamilton before heading back towards the dressing room, with Sophie Roman Haug coming in as a last-minute replacement.

The reason for the change was not immediately clear, but the 28-year-old Hegerberg has spent much of the last few years battling injuries.

Norway lost their opening game in Group A, going down 1-0 to co-hosts New Zealand, while Switzerland beat the Philippines 2-0.

A 1-0 win for debutants the Philippines against New Zealand earlier on Tuesday blew the group wide open.

T.F.Russell--TNT

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