Colombia Defeats Germany 2-1: Stellar Goal by Linda Caicedo and Last-minute Winner Upsets Former Champions

Fifa Women’s World Cup 2023
Venue: Australia and New Zealand Dates: 20 July-20 August
Broadcast: Stream live on BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds and the Sport Newes Center website & app. Get all the details for comprehensive coverage and the latest updates.

Colombia clinched an unexpected victory over Germany in the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup thanks to a last-minute goal by Manuela Vanegas.

Linda Caicedo made a remarkable score to put the South American team in front, which was later equaled by Germany’s Alexandra Popp via a penalty at the 89th minute.

Vanegas then scored a decisive goal from Leicy Santos’ corner, beating Merle Frohms, triggering exhilaration among the massive Colombian crowd at Sydney Football Stadium.

Germany faced their first World Cup group stage loss since 1995.

The game took an unforeseen turn after 18-year-old Caicedo skillfully scored a stunning goal at the 53rd minute, taking the former world champions by surprise.

The group’s final fixtures will begin at 11:00 BST on August 3, with Colombia competing against Morocco and Germany taking on South Korea.

To top the group, Colombia needs a single point, while Germany might require a win to ensure their progression to the knockout stages.

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“It’s natural to feel overjoyed and ecstatic as this is a huge victory for our entire nation, and we’re all feeling it,” commented Colombia’s assistant coach Angelo Marsiglia.

“However, let’s not forget that the game and the tournament are far from over. We’ll continue to take things one step at a time. We have a seasoned team, and they know their objectives.”

Vanegas’ Winning Goal Triggers Extraordinary Celebration

Prior to this game, Germany’s Lina Magull stated that they were prepared for Colombia’s “passion” and physicality – but they were caught off guard by the unexpected challenge.

The Colombians made it a tough game, with numerous midfield skirmishes and hard tackles, causing the Germans to struggle to find their footing.

After being caught off guard by Caicedo’s superb strike, Germany seemed to have secured a draw when Colombian keeper Catalina Perez fouled Lena Oberdorf, and captain Popp efficiently scored the resulting penalty.

However, Colombia had different plans, and it was the unlikely hero, full-back Vanegas, who caused euphoria among their supporters.

A significant contingent of Colombian fans who had attended their opening victory over South Korea at the same venue came out in force again, creating an electric atmosphere. At the sound of the final whistle, it felt as though Sydney had morphed into Bogota.

The late goal by Manuela Vanegas led to extraordinary scenes of Colombian celebration

The only cause for concern for Colombia was when centre-back Jorelyn Carabali was stretchered off in the final seconds following a clash with Popp.

Germany’s streak of 20 consecutive Women’s World Cup group stage games without defeat – a record dating back to a 3-2 loss to Sweden 28 years ago – is now over.

But the greater worry for them is their loss against robust and determined opponents, raising doubts about their aspirations to reach their first final since their last world title in 2007.

“The responsibility lies with us,” said Germany’s coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg. “We control how we play, and it’s our job to deliver. I’m not concerned about our chances of progressing.”

Wonder Teen Caicedo’s Latest Outstanding Performance

Caicedo’s career journey is far from typical – debuting professionally at 14 before being diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 15, followed by chemotherapy and surgery.

Her preparation for this game was also turbulent. She collapsed during a training session on Tuesday, though the Colombian team downplayed the incident as stress and fatigue.

Despite the pressure, the 18-year-old Caicedo, a vital part of Colombia’s offense, showed her worth early in the second half, reminiscent of Michael Owen’s famous individual goal in the 1998 World Cup.

In 2023, Caicedo found a way to create space amidst a group of German players before perfectly curving the ball over keeper Frohms.

Now, the world is starting to recognize the name Linda Caicedo. And if they weren’t taking notice of Colombia before, they certainly are now.

Player of the match

Linda Caicedo

with an average rating of
9.15

Germany
Colombia

Match stats:
Possession: Germany 68%, Colombia 32%
Shots: Germany 14, Colombia 9
Shots on Target: Germany 2, Colombia 4
Corners: Germany 4, Colombia 6
Fouls: Germany 8, Colombia 17

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Colombia’s victory over Germany

More about Colombia’s victory over Germany

• FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
• Germany’s Women’s National Football Team
• Colombia’s Women’s National Football Team
• BBC Sport
• Player Profile: Linda Caicedo
• Player Profile: Manuela Vanegas