Football Ferns trying to leave Panama after strong quake causes cancellation of matches
The New Zealand women's football team is safely evacuating Panama following the cancellation of two international matches due to a 7.7 magnitude earthquake. While no casualties were reported, the team prioritized the safety of players and staff over the scheduled fixtures.
Why it matters
The cancellation highlights the logistical and safety challenges international sports teams face when operating in regions prone to natural disasters.
The Football Ferns are safe and well and looking to get out of Panama as soon as possible after both their matches in the central American nation were cancelled in the wake of a powerful earthquake that struck there on Saturday (NZT).
The quake measured a magnitude 7.7. Some buildings were damaged but there have been no reports of any casualties.
The first game was to be played in Panama City at Estadio Rommel Fernández Gutiérrez this morning (Sunday NZT).
It was cancelled before kickoff, but New Zealand Football has since announced that the second match, which had been scheduled for Wednesday (NZT), has also been called off.
Football Ferns coach Michael Mayne said players and staff were in a team meeting when the earthquake struck.
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