'A really proud moment' - Under-17 Football Ferns blown away by historic win over Uruguay

November 17, 2018

A 2-1 win sees the Young Football Ferns through to their World Cup quarter-finals.

New Zealand's Young Football Ferns are celebrating in style after their historic victory at the Under-17 World Cup in Uruguay, advancing to the quarter-finals for the very first time.

After a 1-0 win over Finland in their tournament opener, New Zealand clawed their way back from a goal down to defeat hosts Uruguay in Montevideo this morning, sealing their spot in the quarter-finals.

Speaking to 1 NEWS afterwards, the team revelled in their own success as well as describing the party on the team bus back to the hotel.

"It was out of this world," captain Anneka Mittendorf said.

"Everyone was out of their seats dancing, it was the best time."

Only the second New Zealand team in history to advance from the group stage at a World Cup, the team had just two objectives for the tournament, coach Leon Birnie said.

"The two goals for the group were one to win a game, and two to get out of the group," he said.

"To achieve both in the first two games is a really proud moment for the staff and the players."

Striker Grace Wisnewski couldn't hide her delight at the achievement of the side, having scored New Zealand's first goal in their come-from-behind win.

"The team is so stoked," she said. "Just to make history for our country was so honouring.

"[We're] super proud."

The Young Football Ferns will face Ghana in their final pool match on Wednesday, before learning their quarter-final opponent.

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