Maya Hahn, one of the stars of New Zealand’s historic FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2018 bronze medal win, has committed to playing for Aotearoa at senior level. 

Hahn, who also qualifies to represent Germany, has chosen to commit to the Ford Football Ferns in a move that will see her play for interim head coach Michael Mayne, one of her coaches at the groundbreaking 2018 tournament.

Following approval from FIFA, the 23-year-old midfielder, who plays for 1. FFC Turbine Potsdam in the German Frauen-Bundesliga, is now eligible for selection and could be in line to be called up for next month’s two Ford Football Ferns matches against Costa Rica.

Maya Hahn said:

“I am really excited about potentially being selected for the Ferns and joining up with the team, many of whom I grew up playing with.

“Both Aotearoa New Zealand and Germany are part of my identity, and I am grateful that I have had opportunities to represent both countries. 

“I have had some really good conversations with Michael over the last few months, and feel that we are on the same page, and that this is a decision I am confident about.

“The plans for the future of this team are exciting and is something that I would love to be a part of, given the opportunity.”

Interim Ford Football Ferns head coach Michael Mayne said: 

“Having known and worked with Maya in previous roles in the age group pathway, I am well aware of the qualities she will bring to this team having been in the European system for a number of seasons. 

“Over a number of positive conversations when I took on this role, I knew she was someone I’d be keen to make sure is available for selection. 

“This is a new cycle for the Ferns, and I am a new coach in the role, so it is a great opportunity for us to cast the net really wide and make sure we are looking at everyone who is potentially eligible to wear the Fern. 

“Maya has the potential to add a different element to our attacking game and that is something I felt is worth chasing and making sure we have available in selection discussions going forward.

“Part of my role is to ensure we have real competition for places across the pitch, so it is great to potentially be able to call upon players of Maya’s quality for our first squad of 2025.”

The Ford Football Ferns play Costa Rica (FIFA rank 43) on Sunday 23 February at 1pm NZT (Saturday 22 February at 6pm local time) and Wednesday 26 February at 11am NZT (Tuesday 25 February at 4pm local time). 

Both games will be played at Estadio Alejandro Morera Soto in Alajuela, Costa Rica. 

Article added: Monday 20 January 2025