Norway's women's national soccer team made a stunning comeback after a turbulent two weeks, securing their spot in the knockout stages of the Women's World Cup with a resounding 6-0 victory over the Philippines. Sophie Roman Haug stole the show with a hat-trick, while Caroline Graham Hansen and Guro Reiten also got on the scoresheet.

Despite a slow start in the tournament, Norway came out with determination and purpose from the beginning of the match. In the sixth minute, right back Thea Bjelde provided a lofted pass to Roman Haug, who unleashed a sensational volley to put Norway in the lead.

Haug continued her impressive form, scoring her second goal in the 17th minute with a perfectly placed header from a deep pass by Vilde Boe Risa.

Caroline Graham Hansen, who was controversially benched in the previous match, justified her place in the starting lineup by sending a powerful shot past the diving Philippines goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel from outside the box in the 31st minute.

Things went from bad to worse for the Philippines when fullback Alicia Barker scored an own goal three minutes into the second half. Guro Reiten then secured Norway's victory by converting a penalty five minutes later.

The Philippines, despite showing resilience, were reduced to 10 players after defender Sofia Harrison was shown a red card in the 67th minute for a foul on Thea Bjelde.

Roman Haug completed her hat-trick in the dying moments of the match, heading in a goal with precision from an assist by Reiten. With this victory, Norway secured second place in Group A, ahead of co-hosts New Zealand, based on goal difference. They will now face the winners of Group C, either Spain or Japan, in their last-16 encounter in Wellington on Saturday.

Norway's coach, Hege Riise, expressed her pride in the team's performance, stating, "We performed from the very start, delivering when we really had to.

This was the best response we could have given the Norwegian people and ourselves." The team's dominant display and unity on the field showcased their determination to succeed in the tournament.

Norway's victory adds to the excitement of the Women's World Cup, which is currently in the group stage. The tournament will culminate in the final on August 20 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney.