Forward Nichelle Prince scores first World Cup goal to secure Canada’s win
Houston Dash forward Nichelle Prince capped an impactful day as Canada defeated New Zealand in their second game to qualify for the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
In her first FIFA World Cup and second start in the tournament, the forward recorded a goal and an assist. Canada took the lead in the first half when Prince made a breakaway run down the left wing, dribbled into the box and passed the ball to teammate Jessie Fleming who struck the ball into the bottom-right corner of the goal.
Minutes before the final whistle, Prince then doubled Canada’s lead when she tapped a rebounded ball into the net. Forward and captain Christine Sinclair headed a crossed ball that hit the left post and landed in front of Prince to secure in the back of the net.
Dash midfielder Sophie Schmidt was part of Canada’s starting XI making her 186th appearance for Canada. Defender Allysha Chapman also played a part in the victory as she entered the game in the 75th minute.
Canada is set to face Group E contenders Netherlands for their last game of the group stage at 11 a.m. on Thursday, June 20 at Stade-Auguste Delaune in Reims, France.
