2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup

France defeats Germany 1-0

A stiff defence from France in the second half kept the favourites scoreless despite numerous attempts near France goalmouth.

France regrouped into defensive play with minimal attacks after seeing the need to defend their only point for victory.

French goalkeeper Mylene Chavas was too good for the German attackers, defending every ball her way and was named the Live Your Goal player of the match.

France now makes the final top four with Korea DPR, Japan and USA.

 

(Pictures by Troy Taule and Kennedy Bani)

France leads at half-time

Germany had several attempts in the opening minutes but failed to convert.

An opening shot from forward Jasmin Sehan hit the crossbar and went over.

Just then in the 16th minute, France swung in a corner kick that bounced off the head of a German player to find the boots of skipper Cascarino, just outside the 18 yards.

Cascarino powered a right footy through that got the crowd roaring for the unexpected goal.

German tried to make a comeback with several outside shots but couldn’t find the net as France leads 1-0 at half-time.

USA secures semifinal spot

They defeated Mexico 2-1 today in the third quarterfinal at the Sir John Guise Stadium.

USA, in black and blue, scored through forward Ally Watt and midfielder Kelcie Hedge. Both players were not included in the starting lineup but came off the bench in the second half.

Mexico, in white and green colours, scored through midfielder Maria Sanchez.

The Mexicans showed technique and great footwork, clearly standing their ground against USA in the first half.

Both teams dominated the first half having equal ball possession.

Mexico and USA scoreless at half-time

Mexico and the United States remain scoreless at half-time of the third quarterfinal of the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup, underway in Port Moresby.

The Mexicans showed technique and great footwork, clearly standing their ground against the Americans.

Both teams dominated the first half having equal ball possession.

Mexico's midfielder Maria Sanchez made the first attempt in the eighth minute, making a clear direct shot outside the penalty box. Unfortunately, it was saved by USA goalkeeper Casey Murphy.

USA and Mexico match underway

The match kicked off at 4pm under fine weather conditions in front of a good crowd.

The North Americans, in blue and black colours, are led by captain Mallory Pugh.

USA's starting lineup includes goalkeeper Casey Murphy, forward Jessie Scarpa, midfielders Ashley Sanchez and Emily Ogle.

The Mexicans, in light green and white colours, are led by captain Nancy Antonio.

Mexico's starting lineup includes their top goal scorer Kiana Palacios, key midfielder Maria Sanchez, goalkeeper Esthefanny Barreras, midfielders Belen Cruz and Eva Gonzalez.

Fans reminded not to bring in prohibited items

Similar to the Pacific Games and the Nations Cup, prohibited items such as fire arms, sharp objects, food and drinks, spray cans, mega phones, hooters, horns, betelnut, lime and mustard are not allowed to be taken into the stadium.

Chief Executive Officer of the Local Organising Committee, Seamus Marten said there were still some fans bringing prohibited items which are not allowed in the stadium.

“We still have people arriving at the stadium mag and bag area with umbrellas, pens, markers, lighters and cigarettes with them to take into the stadium,” said Marten.

Brazil coach overwhelmed with reception received from PNG

Speaking through a translator, Bueno made this comment at the post-match conference after losing to Japan 3-1 in the quarterfinal yesterday.     

He said the assistance and friendliness received by the coaching staffs and players will be treasured. 

Bueno added that he felt sad they will be leaving PNG soon. 

Brazil still improving, says Coach

The Brazilian ladies bowed out of the world cup yesterday after losing to Japan 3-1 in the quarterfinals played in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.    

Translated by a translator, Bueno said, heading into the match, they knew Japan would be a tough team to play as they play fast and are a defensive team.    

“They scored in the first end of first half, and in the second half we needed to score that is why we were open.”

Korea DPR lead Spain 2-1 at halftime

The undefeated Korea DPR showed their muscle taking a two lead by the 30th minute of the game. 

DPR midfielder,  Ju Hyo Sim headed the Koreans into the lead on the 18th minute from the corner kick by Jon So Yon Corner.

And the Koreans struck again in the 30th minute to the boot of Ri Hyang Sim.

She tapped the ball into the net after the Spain Goal Keeper Maria Quinones ran out to attack the ball from a penalty kick.

Nigeria first to depart PNG

Having lost heavily to Japan on the opening day, the African side bounced back to beat Canada 3-1 and Spain 2-1.

However, the consecutive wins did not see the girls to the knock-out round as they bowed out of the competition on superior goal difference.

Spain took the second position in Group B behind Japan having  a five-goal advantage in contrast to Nigeria’s minus three goals.