WOMEN'S WORLD CUP 2023
Watch: Linda Caicedo-inspired Colombia celebrate dramatic win over Germany
A late header from Manuela Vanegas sentenced the two-time world champions to their first group stage defeat since 1995.
Colombia stunned Germany with a 97th-minute winner in their Women’s World Cup group stage fixture, sparking wild scenes of celebration amongst players and supporters.
Germany came into the tournament as one of the favourites to be crowned world champions but they were beaten by a spirited display from the South Americans.
Goals from Linda Caicedo and Manuela Vanegas sent the Colombian support into raptures and effectively guaranteed the team’s progression to the knockout stages of the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
After a goalless first half the game exploded into life soon after the break when Real Madrid’s 18-year-old sensation Caicedo scored a brilliant solo goal. She showed neat footwork in the German box to engineer some space before curling the ball past the outstretched arms of Merle Frohms.
Germany toiled for an equaliser and finally found one in the 89th minute, Alexandra Popp firing home from the penalty spot.
It looked like a fascinating game was heading for a draw until the final moments when Colombia scored a sensational winner late into injury time. Vanegas connected with an out-swinging corner from Leicy Santos to head the ball home.
Colombia celebrates thrilling win over Germany
Facing the two-time world champions, Colombia sought to make it a battle and employed a physical, competitive game plan. A series of tough challenges prevented Germany from building any real momentum and Colombia relied on the talents of Caicedo to pose a threat on the break.
“Obviously, you need to be happy and euphoric because this is a great win for the whole country and we’ve been feeling this,” Colombia coach Angelo Marsiglia said after the game.
“But look, the game and the tournament still continues so we’ll go step by step. We have a very mature team and they know what they want.”
That win makes it two from two for Colombia, leaving them three points ahead of Germany and Morocco in Group H with just one game remaining. Barring a huge goal difference swing in the final fixtures of the group stage, Colombia will be cruising through to the Round of 16.