New Zealand’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup campaign has ended with a spirited 2-0 defeat to group winners Germany in Morocco.
After earlier losses to hosts Morocco and Argentina, Alana Gunn’s side finished fourth in Group A, while Germany advanced to the knockout rounds with a perfect record of three wins from three.
Germany controlled possession and created a succession of first-half chances, but New Zealand goalkeeper Nienke Holland produced a string of saves to keep them at bay. The resistance was finally broken two minutes into added time when Laura Ernst rose highest at a corner and headed home the opener.
Germany carried that momentum into the second half, doubling their advantage in the 56th minute through Clara Choisy.
New Zealand’s task became even tougher four minutes later when Emmie Butler was shown a second yellow card and sent off. Reduced to 10 players, Gunn’s side continued to compete with determination and prevented Germany from adding to the score.
GERMANY 2 (Laura ERNST 45+2’, Clara CHOISY 56’)
NEW ZEALAND 0
(Photo Credit FIFA via Getty Images)