Six Wellington Phoenix youth players have been included in the New Zealand squad for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Grace Bartlett, Alysha Eglinton, Emily Humphrey, Ela Jerez, Brooke Neary, and Katie Pugh have all been selected by U-17 Football Ferns head coach Alana Gunn, ensuring that a strong Phoenix contingent will be present in the Dominican Republic.
Eglinton, Humphrey, Jerez, Neary, and Pugh were all part of the side that swept to victory at last year’s OFC U16 Championship to qualify for the U-17 World Cup.
Jerez has also recently signed a scholarship contract, and will be the youngest member of the Phoenix women’s first team for the upcoming Ninja A-League season.
Wellington Phoenix women’s reserves head coach Callum Holmes is delighted to see so many representatives on the international level.
“It always brings a sense of pride to the academy when we see players showcasing themselves on the world stage,” Holmes said.
“This year we have had 17 players represent New Zealand at tournaments.
“It’s a great achievement for all the players and a reward for their hard work.
“We are really excited to see the players perform on the world stage, and wish Alana and the team all the best for the tournament.”
New Zealand’s first game is against Nigeria, the bronze medallists from the 2022 tournament, on Thursday, October 17.
This will be followed by ties against the hosts Dominican Republic on Sunday, October 20, and Ecuador on Wednesday, October 23.
New Zealand’s best finish at an U-17 Women’s World Cup is third place, achieved in 2018.
All their matches will be available to watch live and free on FIFA+.
