Martens makes history for Dutch with goal

EDMONTON, Canada— Lieke Martens’ long strike from outside the box in the first half gave the Netherlands its first-ever Women’s World Cup goal and a 1-0 victory over New Zealand on Saturday night.

Martens curled the ball up and over the outstretched arms of New Zealand goalkeeper Erin Nayler in the 33rd minute of the match.

The Netherlands is one of eight teams making its debut in the World Cup.

The field for World Cup expanded this year to 24 teams, divided into six groups. Saturday was the start of the monthlong tournament, which concludes with the final in Vancouver, Canada, on July 5.

The Netherlands faces China on Thursday, followed by Canada’s match against New Zealand as the group stage continues.