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Orlando Pride star Ali Riley prepares to lead New Zealand to Olympics after pandemic separated team

The New Zealand captain will return to action with her national team for the first time since the pandemic began next month.

The Ferns’ first game back together will come against Australia on July 21, the first of three highly competitive matches in a knockout group that includes the United States and Sweden.

As a leader on and off the pitch for the Ferns, Riley has used the last year with the Pride to prepare for the tournament.

“I’m definitely in a unique position not having any preparation with the national team,” Riley said. “But I know with full confidence that being here is the best place I can be if I’m not going to be with my national team in terms of preparing.