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Canada vs. New Zealand: Real-time Updates
  • Canada Soccer Drone Scandal, Game coverage - recap
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    Canada vs. New Zealand: Real-time Updates

    Canada has begun its journey to defend its Olympic gold from Tokyo 2020 — but it won’t be easy.

    With all-time top goal-scorer Christine Sinclair enjoying retirement, and star right-back Jayde Riviere ruled out with injury, Les Rouges have a steep mountain to climb when it takes on New Zealand in Group A action on Thursday.

    Adding to Canada’s challenges is the recent spygate scandal, where members of Bev Priestman’s support staff were caught and sent home earlier this week for using drones to spy on New Zealand training. FIFA said Wednesday its disciplinary committee has opened proceedings against Canada Soccer and three members of the women’s team’s staff.

    So, will the Canadians start their Olympic gold-medal defence strong and show the drone incident isn’t affecting them? Or, will the Football Ferns reign supreme and seek redemption?

    Read on to keep up-to-date with the game as it happens.

    LIVE SCORE: CANADA 1, NEW ZEALAND 1

    • 1′: And we’re off! Canada gets the ball rolling at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, St-Etienne.

    • 7′: In the opening minutes, Canada looks tentative, nervous almost. Les Rouges’ trademark quick passes are on full display, but there’s hesitancy.

    • 13′: New Zealand strike first off a set piece! Katie Bowen’s ball slips past Kailen Sheridan’s hands and into the net. 1-0 for the Ferns.

    It’s 150 appearances for Canada centre-back Kadeisha Buchanan!

    • 25′: After the opening goal, New Zealand appears to be keeping its defensive structure amidst Canada’s pressure. Clearly, the Kiwis have nothing to lose — or are holding a grudge after the spying. Nonetheless, the game has turned physical and aggressive.

    • 32′: At the hydration break, Canada is looking uncharacteristically off. There’s miscommunication, nerves, and Les Rouges are giving New Zealand heaps of space on all areas of the pitch. It’s not new that Canada struggles on the attack, but the players Andy Spence has selected don’t seem to be stringing together opportunities.

    • 35′: Chance for Canada! On the break, Adriana Leon’s shot goes right into the keeper’s hands. Leon, alongside fellow Canadians Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David, is up for the 2023/24 CONCACAF Player of the Year award.

    • 41′: As we near the end of the first half, the scoreline remains 1-0. Nichelle Prince is showing tenacity and speed up the flank, but Canada is unable to find windows of space. Cloé Lacasse gets a shot on net, but the angle proves too difficult to be fruitful.

    • 44′: HUGE miss for Canada! After congestion in the box, Prince’s shot sails over the crossbar. The 29-year-old should have found the net, but it means chances are slowly coming for the reigning Olympic champions.

    • 45′: The second official has announced four minutes of first-half added time. Will Canada level the score, or will New Zealand take its lead into the half?

    • 45 + 3′: GOAL FOR CANADA! After a tizzy of touches in the box, Lacasse levels the score 1-1. The speed Canada showed will be its key to the game against the Kiwis, who struggle with “pinball” soccer.

    • HT: It’s all square at the half! As the players file into their team rooms, both sides will be back to the drawing board ahead of a huge second 45.

    • HT: Stat attack! After the first half, Canada recorded six shots and four shots on target while New Zealand tallied one shot and one shot on target. Canada leads in possession with 60 per cent.

    More from Sportsnet
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    Canada and New Zealand are two countries that are often compared due to their similarities in terms of size, population, and quality of life. Both countries are known for their stunning landscapes, friendly people, and high standard of living. However, there are some key differences between the two that set them apart.

    One major difference between Canada and New Zealand is their geographical location. Canada is located in North America, while New Zealand is located in the South Pacific. This difference in location has a significant impact on the climate and natural environment of each country. Canada experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters and hot summers, while New Zealand has a more temperate climate with mild temperatures year-round.

    In terms of population, Canada is much larger than New Zealand. Canada has a population of over 37 million people, while New Zealand has a population of just under 5 million. This difference in population size has implications for things like infrastructure, healthcare, and education in each country.

    When it comes to quality of life, both Canada and New Zealand consistently rank highly in international surveys. Canada is known for its universal healthcare system, high standard of education, and diverse cultural landscape. New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreational opportunities, and strong sense of community.

    In terms of real-time updates, both Canada and New Zealand have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both countries have implemented strict measures to control the spread of the virus, including lockdowns, travel restrictions, and mask mandates. As of now, both countries are gradually reopening their economies and relaxing restrictions as vaccination rates increase.

    Overall, Canada and New Zealand are both incredible countries with a lot to offer. Whether you prefer the rugged wilderness of Canada or the laid-back lifestyle of New Zealand, both countries have something for everyone. Keep an eye on real-time updates from both countries to stay informed about the latest developments and opportunities in each.