Switzerland and Norway have booked their spots in the 2023 World Cup knockouts after their respective wins on Sunday. The Norwegians produced a statement 6-0 win over the Philippines, while Switzerland’s draw against New Zealand was enough to see them top Group A and knock the co-hosts out.
In the final match of the day, Colombia stunned Germany thanks to a sensational goal from 18-year-old Linda Caicedo, and a 97th minute header from Manuela Vanegas. The Powerpuff Girls take the top spot in Group H, leaving it all to play for between the Germans and Morocco.
South Korea 0-1 Morocco
Embed from Getty ImagesA narrow 1-0 victory over South Korea has reignited Morocco’s hopes of progressing from the group stage. An early goal from Ibtissam Jraidi gave her side the lead with just six minutes on the clock. Despite South Korea dominating the majority of the game, the Atlas Lionesses were able to retain all three points and keep their chances of progressing alive.
The defeat sees Colin Bell’s side bow out of the tournament, having failed to secure a point in their opening two matches. South Korea will wrap up their campaign against Germany, meanwhile Morocco must defeat Colombia to give them any chance of moving on to the knockout stages.
Norway 6-0 Philippines
Embed from Getty ImagesAs Group A drew to its conclusion, Norway enjoyed a resounding 6-0 victory over the Philippines. Two goals in quick succession from Sophie Román Haug got the action underway. A late third for Haug saw the 24-year-old bag the second hat-trick of the tournament. Goals from Caroline Graham Hansen and Guro Reiten, alongside an own goal from Alicia Barker, saw Norway secure the joint-biggest win of the tournament so far.
The defeat sees the Philippines bow out of their maiden World Cup in the group stage. Despite failing to progress to the knockouts, Alen Stajcic’s side will take plenty of positives from the tournament. Beating New Zealand will give the team a huge confidence boost as they look to qualify for future major tournaments. Hege Riise’s side finished second in Group A, with a meeting with either Spain or Japan to come.
Switzerland 0-0 New Zealand
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Football Ferns bow out of their home tournament after failing to pick up a win against Switzerland. A 0-0 draw was enough to see Switzerland top Group A, and progress into the knockouts alongside Norway. New Zealand agonisingly miss out on goal difference.
The Ferns will not progress further but can hold their heads up high having made history on their home turf. On the opening night of the competition, Hannah Wilkinson scored the monumental goal to mark her country’s first ever World Cup victory. A campaign to be proud of, regardless of the end result.
Germany 1-2 Colombia
Embed from Getty ImagesColombia lifted the roof of the Allianz Stadium with a gargantuan win over two-time champions Germany. Linda Caicedo gave her side the lead with a sensational goal and The Powerpuff Girls held on until deep into the second half.
Alex Popp netted a late equaliser when the Germans were awarded a penalty to restore the deadlock. However, Colombia’s spirit did not break. Manuela Vanegas struck the winner in the seventh minute of stoppage time to snatch the victory for her resilient team.
The Powerpuff Girls now sit top of their group on six points and will qualify for the knockouts if they can pick up at least one point against Morocco in their final match.
Germany will be looking to bag a statement win over South Korea to book their place in the next round. They can’t afford to drop any more points now, or they risk Morocco edging them out.
