Norway captain Maren Mjelde spoke to the club at full-time as her side got their European Championship campaign off to a winning start with a 4-1 win over Northern Ireland at St. Mary’s Stadium last night.
Norway now move to top of Group A on goal difference, ahead of second-placed England who beat Austria 1-0 at Old Trafford on the opening day.
Guro Reiten was heavily involved in the action, getting a goal and assist to cap off a strong performance from Norway.
Speaking at full-time, Mjelde said: ‘It was big today, probably one of the proudest moments I’ve had so far in my career. I didn’t really know if I was going to be able to participate in this tournament for a while, so I’m just really happy and satisfied that it was a good game. I’m really proud.'
There was a large following for the Norwegian team, something Mjelde stressed the importance of.
‘It was incredible to feel and hear their support. There was a lot of our family in the stands which is obviously really good for us. It was an amazing evening.’
Reiten curled in a free-kick from the edge of the box to extend Norway’s lead in the second half, something she has done a number of times for club and country. Mjelde also discussed the importance of the timing of that goal.
‘It was a good moment to score as well because I felt that Northern Ireland were trying to get back into the game again after their goal. So, after Guro’s goal it kind of settled down again and we got better control of the game again. It was an important moment for her to score and I’m happy for her!’
Mjelde and Reiten will be coming up against four of their team-mates on Monday when Norway face England, the Norwegian skipper is expecting a tough test up against her Blues colleagues.
‘Obviously, we are going to face a hard opponent on Monday with some Chelsea girls of course but it’s going to be tough but we are really excited for that game!’
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