USA edge fellow elite Germany for 3rd crown

USA overcame the odds to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win against champions Germany in Tokyo to claim their third FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup crown. Germany went into the contest having defeated USA 3-0 in a group encounter just a fortnight ago, and without having conceded a goal in six matches at the tournament. The match commenced in cagey fashion, perhaps to the relief of USA, given Germany’s blistering three-goal burst against Japan in the semi-final. Germany caused several anxious moments for the opposition defence with crosses from either side, but the USA defence, led capably by skipper Julie Johnston, managed to deal with the danger. It wasn’t until past the half–hour mark that the match saw the first notable effort on goal as Germany’s Melanie Leupolz fired in a powerful effort that caused Bryane Heaberlin some anxious moments, before the ball narrowly cleared the crossbar. Then USA finally made some attacking headway as Maya Hayes made a driving run and shot from her position on the right side of the forward line. It proved to be a portent of things to come as right fullback Crystal Dunn used her pace and power to cut in from the flank and pull the ball back for Kealia Ohai, who coolly swept home from near the penalty spot. The tempo picked up in the second half but despite Germany shading possession, they were rarely able to pierce the USA defence. Fullback Leonie Maier hit a long-range effort with 15 minutes remaining which Heaberlin pushed onto the crossbar, as the champions became increasingly desperate. Despite a succession of corners, Germany could not break the resilience of the Stars and Stripes. Lina Magull had an excellent chance to draw Germany level with the last kick of the match, but Heaberlin remained cool to produce a crucial sprawling save. FIFA