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 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 Bremer 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 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. Kadeisha Buchanan (18) and Sura Yekka (17), both defenders, plus midfielder Jessie Fleming (16), also play for the full national team.
