FIFA insist the Women’s World Cup will go ahead safely despite a deadly shooting in Auckland hours before the opening match in the city on Thursday.
A gunman killed two people and six others, including police officers, were left injured by the attack less than 5km from Eden Park, where co-hosts New Zealand produced a huge upset by beating Norway 1-0 as the tournament proceed as planned.
New Zealand prime minister Chris Hipkins confirmed the gunman was also dead and said the shooting was not being seen as an act of terrorism. He described it as a “standalone incident” and said fans should feel safe to attend the matches.
A moment of silence was observed before the opening match and players from both sides wore black armbands. Co-hosts Australia also kicked off their tournament against the Republic of Ireland in Sydney this morning.
“We are satisfied there is no ongoing risk to the public and no reason why the tournament should not proceed,” said New Zealand Police. “The matches are safe to attend”.
FIFA said they had received assurances that the World Cup can proceed safely.
England face Haiti in their opening game in Brisbane on Saturday.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino said: “FIFA extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives, and our thoughts and prayers remain with those who have been injured in this tragic incident.
“We have been involved in ongoing communication from the outset, and we have also received the necessary in relation to the safety and security of the participating teams and fans.”
The shooting in Auckland began at about 7.20am local time. Norway players awoke to the sound of a helicopter hovering near their hotel, but Chelsea defender and captain Maren Mjelde insisted they felt safe the whole time.
The Italy squad is also based in the area and they were forced to delay their training session this morning.
