Soccer-Norway ease past Northern Ireland at Women's Euros

Soccer Football - Women's Euro 2022 - Group A - Norway v Northern Ireland - St Mary's Stadium, Southampton, Britain - July 7, 2022 Northern Ireland's Julie Nelson scores their first goal REUTERS/John Sibley

SOUTHAMPTON, England (Reuters) - Twice champions Norway crushed debutants Northern Ireland 4-1 on Thursday as both teams got their Women's European Championship campaign underway in an entertaining match.

Norway, who have twice reached the final since their most recent title in 1993, looked confident throughout the game and took the lead before the 10-minute mark through midfielder Julie Blakstad.