The first goal in a gripping match was scored inside the first minute when Bellinda Giada put Papua New Guinea ahead following a mix-up in the Namibian defence.
However, the Africans pulled level 15 minutes later as Ignacia Haoses struck a fine effort into the top corner from the edge of the box.
Another defensive lapse by Namibia allowed Giada to put the Oceania representatives ahead once more and after Marity Sep made it 3-1, Ivone Kooper reduced the deficit again with a long-range strike.
The second half remained goalless despite both sides creating numerous chances to add to the scoreline.
Haoses had the best opportunity to do so, only to see her free-kick crash off the crossbar, with Luzane de Wee heading the rebound over.
At the other end of the pitch goalkeeper Quendra Kasume pulled off a smart save to deny substitute Joanne Miping.
Papua New Guinea took part at the competition in 2010 but failed to find the net at all in three games there, making it an extra special occasion for the Margaret Aka-coached team.
Papua New Guinea set three new records in their victory over Namibia that enabled them to finish one rung higher than they did at their tournament debut four years ago in Singapore – their first win, their first goals and their highest finish.
A famous face was present at the Jiangning Sports Centre Stadium as none other than Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, greeted the girls’ teams personally prior to kick-off before following the action out on the pitch with great interest.
The gold medal match between highly fancied Venezuela and host nation China takes place at 8.45pm local time today.
The bronze medal match kicks off at 6pm local time and features Mexico and Slovakia.
Ends
Story reproduced courtesy FIFA.com
Image courtesy Getty Images