EDMONTON, Canada – Germany scored a goal in each half to top Canada 2-0 in front of 22,421 fans at Commonwealth Stadium on Saturday, eliminating the host from the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup at the quarterfinal stage.
The Germans reached the semifinals for a fourth consecutive time and are aiming for a second title in their last three attempts.
Canada had a chance to take an initial lead, but Emma Fletcher’s looping 20-yard shot over goalkeeper Meike Kaemper in the ninth minute crashed off the crossbar.
Avoiding an early setback, Kaemper would ignite Germany’s first goal in the 24th minute. After a ball was played back to her, the 20-year-old launched a long kick beyond the midfield line, which Lena Petermann flicked on with her head. Pauline Bremer raced to gain possession and rounded goalkeeper Kailen Sheridan on the right-outer edge of the box. Sheridan somehow recovered to impede the 18-year-old forward momentarily near the goal line. Despite that delay, Bremer had the presence of mind to cut back inside and fire just inside the near post from a severe angle.
Coming out of the break, Canada looked threatening offensively as Janine Beckie crafted some opportunities with a number of right-sided crosses.
Germany, though, netted an insurance goal with eight minutes left in normal time. Sara Dabritz delivered a tantalizing right-sided corner kick that Rebecca Knaak headed home forcefully from four-yards out.
Despite the loss, Canada has reason to believe its future is bright as evidenced by the fact that against Germany it started three players 18-years-old or younger. Defenders Kadeisha Buchanan (18) and Sura Yekka (17), plus midfielder Jessie Fleming (16), are also members of the full national team.
