Colombia become second team in history to beat Germany in Women’s World Cup group stage match

Sweden were the first team to beat Germany in 1995

Colombia are only the second team to ever defeat Germany in the group stage of the Women's World Cup. In the 1995 World Cup, Sweden defeated Germany for the first time ever in the World Cup group stage, 3-2. 

At the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, Colombia upset Germany with a 97th-minute goal from Manuela Vanegas.

The South Americans took the lead thanks to a wondergoal from Linda Caicedo, but Germany responded with a penalty from Alexandra Popp in the 89th minute.

When Leicy Santos' corner came in, Vanegas headed it past Merle Frohms, energising the throngs of Colombian fans in the Sydney Football Stadium. It caused Germany to lose in the World Cup group stage for the first time since 1995.

After Caicedo, 18, stunned the two-time world champions in minute 53 with a spectacular curling shot into the top corner, the game came to a chaotic conclusion.

On August 3, at 11 A.M. BST, the last round of games in this group begins with Colombia playing Morocco and Germany playing South Korea.

DFB Women might need a win to guarantee a spot in the knockout rounds, while Colombia only needs a point to win the group.

Before the match, Lina Magull claimed that they were prepared for Colombia's "passion" and physicality; yet, they received much more than they anticipated.

With many midfield battles and challenging tackles against the two-time world champions, Colombia made the match a true contest, making it difficult for Germany to establish any sort of rhythm.

The Germans were thought to have escaped with a point after falling behind to Caicedo's stunning moment when Colombia custodian Catalina Perez fouled Lena Oberdorf and captain Popp converted the penalty.

However, Colombia had other plans, and its supporters were thrown into a frenzy by the unexpected character of full-back Vanegas.

The same stadium hosted Colombia's opening victory over South Korea, where a sizable contingent of fans showed up. Here, they were loud and present once more. When the final horn blew, it appeared like Sydney had been changed into Bogota.