Two time winners Germany knocked out of World Cup
Two-time champions Germany were sent crashing out of the Women’s World Cup group stages in the biggest shock of the tournament thanks to a draw with South Korea.
It is the first time in Germany’s history they have failed to reach the knockout stages.
One of the pre-tournament favourites, Germany knew they needed to better Morocco’s result against Colombia to progress in Group H, but that match finished 1-0 to Morocco.
An early goal by South Korea’s Cho So-hyun shook the Euro 2022 finalists in Brisbane, but captain Alexandra Popp netted her fourth goal in three matches to equalise shortly before half-time.
Germany were heading through as group runners-up as they went off the pitch for the break, but Morocco stunned Colombia to score minutes later in Perth, meaning Martina Voss-Tecklenburg’s side had to win.
Popp was their best hope of scoring again and she almost did, thumping a header off the crossbar minutes after she had bundled it over the line, only for the video assistant referee to confirm it was offside.
The Wolfsburg striker came close again later when she sent a free header wide of the post, roaring in frustration as the minutes ticked away for Germany.
During stoppage time Germany sent countless crosses into South Korea’s box to no avail as substitute Sydney Lohmann struck wide and sent another effort inches over the bar.
Germany’s players fell to the ground at full-time and were in tears as they were consoled by staff members.
South Korea finish bottom of the group, having lost their first two matches.
Colombia face Jamaica on Tuesday at 09:00 BST in the last 16, while Morocco take on France at 12:00.
(BBC)
