ANKARA – FIFA on Thursday extends its “deepest condolences” over a shooting in New Zealand hours before the start of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

“FIFA extends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following the incident which occurred this morning in Auckland, New Zealand, and our thoughts and prayers remain with those who have been injured in this tragic incident,” world football’s governing body said on Twitter.

Following the incident, FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke to New Zealand authorities, who told him the incident “was not related to football operations,” and the opening match of the World Cup at Auckland’s Eden Park will take place as planned, FIFA added.

“The participating teams in close proximity to this incident are being supported in relation to any impact that may have taken place,” it said.

At least two people were killed and at least six were injured, including a police officer, on Thursday when a man opened fire at a construction site in Auckland, according to local media.

The male shooter also died, said the New Zealand police.

Police launched an investigation into the incident and urged the public to steer clear of the area.

New Zealand takes opener

New Zealand beat Norway 1-0 in the opening game as the co-hosts bagged their first win in the Women’s World Cup’s history.

In the early minutes of the second half at Auckland’s Eden Park, New Zealand forward Hannah Wilkinson scored in style in the box after quick teamwork.

Wilkinson, 31, has scored in three different editions –2011, 2015 and 2023.

In the second half, Norway’s Tuva Hansen had an effort from distance to hit the woodwork but New Zealand goalkeeper Victoria Esson made a fingertip save.

In the 89th minute, New Zealand were awarded a penalty after a VAR review for a handball. However, Ria Percival hit the goalpost to keep Norway’s hopes alive.

Norway’s Guro Reiten lost a chance in the box in injury time, as New Zealand took a historic win.

In their next fixture in Group A, New Zealand will face the Philippines on July 25 in Wellington.

On the same day, Norway will play Switzerland in Hamilton.

Before the kickoff, both New Zealand and Norway players, and the fans in the stadium observed a minute of silence for the victims of the Auckland shooting.

The 2023 Women’s World Cup will run through Aug. 20. (Anadolu)