Day 11 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 brought historic moments, shocking upsets, and intense competition. The unexpected standout was the World Cup newcomer, Morocco, who made history for all the right reasons. However, the co-host, New Zealand, bowed out of the tournament, following a goalless draw against Switzerland. The Colombians, however, stole the spotlight by defeating the formidable Germans.
Colombia, to the astonishment of many, beat Germany 2-1 in a thrilling match. Despite Germany’s status as the clear favourites, Colombia, the world’s 25th-ranked team, held their own and even managed to clinch the victory. The decisive moment was Manuela Vanegas’s goal deep into injury time, her header from a corner kick sealing the win for Colombia.
Germany had entered the game as heavy favourites, especially after their 6-0 demolition of Morocco in the previous match. Nonetheless, the Colombians put up a brave fight, with 18-year-old Linda Caicedo scoring a brilliant goal in the 52nd minute, marking an awe-inspiring moment considering her recent health battles. Despite Alexandra Popp scoring for Germany in the 89th minute, the Colombians managed to find another gear in injury time to claim the victory.
Morocco also made headlines as they recorded their first-ever win at the Women’s World Cup, defeating South Korea 1-0. Striker Ibtissam Jraidi earned a place in history as the first Moroccan woman to score a goal in a World Cup. The team also made a notable cultural statement, with defender Nouhaila Benzina becoming the first player to wear a hijab at the Women’s World Cup, or any other major senior-level women’s tournament.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s tournament ended in disappointment as they became the first host nation to exit the Women’s World Cup at the group stage, a dubious honour previously only seen in the men’s tournament in South Africa in 2010 and Qatar in 2022. Despite this, their coach, Jitka Klimkova, expressed pride in the team’s effort and highlighted the positives they could draw from the experience.
Elsewhere, Norway convincingly defeated the Philippines 6-0, thereby qualifying for the knockout stage due to their superior goal difference in comparison to their Group A rivals, New Zealand.
