Few hours until the FIFA Women’s World Cup prepares to kick off, a tragic shooting incident in Auckland has left football fans on the edge. However, Norway’s World Cup team remains determined and undeterred, stating that they “felt safe the whole time” despite being caught up in the incident.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, a shooting took place in the central business district of Auckland, leaving three people dead. Among the deceased was the perpetrator responsible for the attack. The incident occurred just five kilometres from the hotel in Norway.
Norway’s captain, Maren Mjelde, who also plays alongside Matildas captain Sam Kerr at Chelsea, reassured the public that the team was not unduly alarmed by the situation.
“Everyone probably woke up quite quickly when the helicopter hovered outside the hotel window and a large number of emergency vehicles arrived,” she told Norwegian broadcaster NRK.
“At first, we didn’t know what was going on, but eventually there were updates on TV and the local media.”
Despite the proximity to the incident, Mjelde expressed confidence in the security measures in place, both from FIFA and the team’s security officer.
“FIFA has a good security system at the hotel, and we have our security officer in the squad,” she added. “Everyone seems calm. We are preparing as normal for the game tonight.”
The New Zealand government, along with FIFA officials, has conducted thorough discussions in light of the incident. Prime Minister Chris Hipkins affirmed that the shooting was an isolated act and not part of a wider national threat.
“Those watching around the world can be assured that the police have neutralized the threat. We have been in regular contact with FIFA. They are proceeding as planned. There will be an increased police presence, obviously, around Auckland to provide public reassurance, but the police have indicated they do not think there is an ongoing security or safety risk.”He stated.
New Zealand Sports Minister Grant Robertson confirmed that FIFA, including President Gianni Infantino, has approved the commencement of the tournament as scheduled. The opening match between Norway and co-hosts New Zealand at Eden Park is set to proceed without delay.
Notably, the Norway team’s hotel is situated in the same block as the crime scene, prompting authorities to place the area in lockdown earlier in the day.