HANGZHOU, China -- Norway wore down Canada in the second

half for a 2-1 victory in the Women's World Cup on Wednesday.

The fourth-ranked Norwegians trailed 1-0 at the half in their

Group C opener before Ragnhild Gulbrandsen and Ane Stangeland

Horpestad came through with goals for the former World Cup

champions.

Canada had a goal disallowed in the 32nd minute because of a

foul, but went in front a minute later on a goal by Candace

Chapman.

Norway drew even seven minutes into the second half as

Gulbrandsen rose between two defenders to meet a cross from the

right with a firm header.

Norway dominated possession in the second half. Canada

goalkeeper Erin McLeod made three impressive saves to keep the

score tied, but she could do nothing to stop Norway's winner in the

81st minute.

A corner from the right was headed on goal, blocked on the line

by a defender, but Norway captain Horpestad was quickest to react

to the loose ball and scored.

In the earlier Group C match Wednesday, Australia beat Ghana

4-1.

Australia meets Norway on Saturday, while Canada plays Ghana.