South American teenage sensation Linda Caicedo was on target once again as 2023 Women’s Copa America finalist Colombia saw off Germany 2-1 in an intriguing affair at the Allianz Stadium on Saturday.
The 18-year-old, who won the best player award at last year’s Women’s Copa America, gave her side the lead in the 52nd minute with an outrageous right-footed finish.
After receiving the ball inside Germany’s box from teammate Jorelyn Carabali, Caicedo still had a lot to do. She beat two German defenders before curling in an unstoppable strike into the top right corner, leaving goalkeeper Merle Frohms in no man’s land.
The goal was her second of the competition after she scored Colombia’s second in their opening-day victory over South Korea.
Caicedo could have made it two late in the game, but Mayra Ramirez’s low cross was too far for the youngster to get on.
Germany upped their press, and it eventually paid off as the returning Lena Oberdorf, who missed their game against Morocco due to injury, won her side a penalty after goalkeeper Catalina Perez brought her down in the box.
Team captain Alexandra Popp elected to take the spot kick, which she converted, drawing Germany level with her third goal of the tournament.
However, the resilience of the Colombians became more evident as they refused to lay low. Defender Manuela Vanegas eventually gave her side the all-important second goal and winner, leaping above everyone to nod home Leicy Santos’ corner.
The win meant Colombia had won two games at a FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament for the first time in their history.
Germany also pick up an unwanted record as they record their first defeat in the group stage of the Women’s World Cup since a 3-2 loss against Sweden at the 1995 edition.
The South Americans climb to the top of Group H with six points, while Germany drops a spot to second place with three points. There’s, however, still a lot to play for in the group as qualification for the round of 16 goes on until the last group game following Morocco’s win earlier in the day.
Germany will face the already eliminated South Korea next, while Colombia will take on the Atlas Lionesses of Morocco on Thursday, August 3.
