Germany have been knocked out of the Women’s World Cup after a 1-1 draw with South Korea.
Morocco’s surprise 1-0 win against Colombia means the African side finished ahead of Germany in Group H.
Germany had never previously failed to qualify from their World Cup group and had finished top of the standings in each edition since 1999. They are the latest big name to drop out of the Australia and New Zealand World Cup at the group stage, following untimely exits by Canada, Brazil and Italy.
Martina Voss-Tecklenburg’s side went into the final round of group-stage fixtures in second place, three points behind leaders Colombia and ahead of Morocco on goal difference.
Follow the Women’s World Cup with The Athletic
But it was South Korea, coached by Englishman Colin Bell, who took the lead early on against Germany at the Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane, with Cho So-hyun finishing cooly after being played through in the sixth minute. South Korea had also hit the post just a few minutes earlier.
Germany had the majority of possession following Cho’s goal and their pressure was eventually rewarded just before half-time when captain Alexandra Popp rose highest to head her side level.
The Europeans’ joy was short-lived, however, with news of a crucial goal for Morocco coming in first-half added time in Perth — meaning Germany had slipped back down to third in the group.
Though Germany toiled for an all-important second goal which would have seen them leapfrog Morocco again, they could not find a way through despite late chances falling their way in added time. The German players were visibly distraught at the full-time whistle, while the South Koreans celebrated despite their exit from the tournament.
Germany began their World Cup campaign with a bang, beating Morocco 6-0 in their opening group game. A shock 2-1 defeat by Colombia followed, though, leaving the two-time winners in an awkward spot heading into the South Korea match.
Colombia will now face Jamaica in the last-16, while Morocco will take on France.
GO DEEPER
It’s time to stop criticizing players for being ‘too happy’ at the World Cup
(Photo: Sajad Imanian/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)
#Germany #crash #biggest #upsets #Womens #World #Cup #history
