The inaugural FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup will be remembered for many things: big crowds, spectacular goals and a level of play that far exceeded expectations. It will also be remembered as the tournament of the No10, all the more so after the major end-of-tournament awards were dominated by Japan's Mana Iwabuchi and Dzsenifer Marozsan of Germany.

adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze Balls

adidas Golden Ball : Mana Iwabuchi (JPN)
adidas Silver Ball : Dzsenifer Marozsan (GER)
adidas Bronze Ball : Kristie Mewis (USA)

New Zealand's love affair with Mana Iwabuchi was frustratingly fleeting, with the Japan No10's brilliance on show over just three thrilling matches. However, what the 15-year-old was unable to provide in quantity, she more than made up for in quality, leaving Kiwi crowds with unforgettable memories of a dazzling natural talent.

Hailed as a "future star of women's football" by Gerard Sergent after orchestrating Japan's 3-2 win over the eventual runners-up, Iwabuchi went on to justify the France coach's claim by ripping his side to shreds in a sensational 7-1 win. Rested for the Young Nadesiko's final group game, she returned for the quarter-final against England only to depart the stadium in floods of tears after a cruel and undeserved defeat on penalties.

The tournament was undoubtedly poorer for Iwabuchi's premature exit, but when the time came to vote for the player of the tournament, the Kiwi media provided the ultimate token of their enduring esteem and affection. Their choice was backed by the head of FIFA's Technical Study Group, Sylvie Beliveau. " She is an exceptional player," enthused Beliveau. "Her ability on and off the ball, her reading of the game and her movement and anticipation set her above the other players here. "

adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze Shoes

adidas Golden Shoe: Dzsenifer Marozsan (GER)
adidas Silver Shoe: Vicki DiMartino (USA)
adidas Bronze Shoe: Jon Myong Hwa (PRK)

Dzsenifer Marozsan might have been pipped to the adidas Golden Ball, but the classy Germany No10 did claim gold in one category by topping the tournament's scoring charts. Although she failed to score in either the semi-final or final, Marozsan had, by this stage, accumulated a handsome haul of six goals that ultimately proved sufficient to keep her ahead of worthy adversaries such as Vicki DiMartino and Jon Myong Hwa.

adidas Golden Glove
USA's Taylor Vancil was identified as the best of a generally impressive bunch of goalkeepers at New Zealand 2008, the American beating the likes of England's Lauren Davey and Korea DPR's Hong Myong Hui to this TSG-selected award.

FIFA Fair Play award
This was not the prize they came for, but Germany were worthy winners nonetheless, picking up just one yellow card and epitomising the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship that imbued the entire tournament.

Story provided by FIFA Media for more visit www.fifa.com

AUCKLAND – Korea DPR have won the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup today after coming from a goal down to snatch an extra time winner against USA in the tournament final at North Harbour Stadium in Auckland.

The Asian champions can now boast both age-group Women’s World Cup titles after claiming the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Russia in 2006. The result see’s a break in tradition for USA who had previously won every inaugural FIFA Women’s tournament with wins at the FIFA Women's World Cup, FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup and Women's Olympic Football Tournament.

The Koreans fell behind to a freak own goal from a throw-in in the 2nd minute but drew level through Kim Un-Hyang with 13 minutes of regular time remaining, with Jang Hyon-Sun netting the winner in the second period of extra time.

Germany defeated England 3-0 in the third and fourth playoff match which preceded the final to claim the Bronze medal.

The dramatic final between two powerhouses of women’s football was a fitting way to end a tournament that captured the imagination of the New Zealand public, with a crowd of 16,162 pushing the tournament’s total to 212, 504, dwarfing the 52,630 that watched the 2006 U-20 Women’s World Cup in Russia.

Korea DPR must have felt it was not going to be their day when the Americans stole into the lead after just two minutes. Cloee Colohan's long throw deceived everyone as it sailed into the Korean box, before bouncing over goalkeeper Hong Myong Hui, who could only push the ball into the back of the net as she attempted a last-ditch save. Agonisingly for Hong, had she not touched the ball, the goal would not have stood.

That fortuitous strike was almost enough to earn USA the trophy. But with only 13 minutes remaining, the Asians finally got back in the game. Reacting first when Ri Un Ae's fine free-kick came back off the bar, Kim Un Ju hooked the ball back for Kim Un Yang to head home and send the game into extra-time. And as penalties beckoned, Jang Hyon Sun kept her cool to round off a textbook counter-attack and put Korea DPR on top of the world.

The extra-time substitute needed only nine minutes to write her name in the tournament annals, beating goalkeeper Taylor Vancil at the end of an impressive team move to ensure Korea DPR took the honours at the first ever FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup.

Korean Coach Ri Ui Ham said the title reflected on a perfect build up and preparation campaign.

“We have been training very hard for a long time to achieve this,” he said.

“We became stronger game by game. We came here with no other goal than the victory; our players were in perfect condition and showed it during the whole tournament.

“Throughout, we have been thinking only about our country and people, so we are happy that we will bring great pleasure to out motherland with this victory.”

Germany put their tearful semi-final defeat in Christchurch behind them with an impressive performance in the third-place match, beating England 3-0. Ralf Peter's side were too quick, skilful and strong for their opponents, and stamped their authority with typical promptness when Inka Wesely headed home unmarked from a corner.

Had it not been for Lauren Davey in the England goal and some wayward finishing from Dzsenifer Marozsan, the European champions would have wrapped the game up long before the end.

As it was, they had to wait until the final 15 minutes before putting the match beyond England's reach, Lynn Mester and Turid Knaak completing the scoring to give the Germans something to smile about when they depart New Zealand. Beaten on the day, England can look back on the tournament with great satisfaction, after unexpectedly reaching the semi-finals.

Japanese playmaker Mana Iwabuchi picked up the adidas Golden Ball award for the tournament’s most outstanding player, while German striker Dzsenifer Marozsan scooped the tournaments Golden Shoe award with an impressive haul of six goals.

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 Awards.

adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze Balls
adidas Golden Ball : Mana Iwabuchi (JPN)
adidas Silver Ball : Dzsenifer Marozsan (GER)
adidas Bronze Ball : Kristie Mewis (USA)

adidas Golden, Silver and Bronze Shoes
adidas Golden Shoe: Dzsenifer Marozsan (GER)
adidas Silver Shoe: Vicki DiMartino (USA)
adidas Bronze Shoe: Jon Myong Hwa (PRK)

adidas Golden Glove
Taylor Vancil (USA)

FIFA Fair Play award
Germany

The Korean side celebrates infront of the huge New Zealand crowd

Tournament top goalscorer Dzsenifer Marozsan and German legend Franz Beckenbauer

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008

Korea DPR (0) 1 (1) 2 (Un Hyang KIM 77’, JANG Hyon Sun 113’)
USA  (0) 1 (1) 1 (HONG Myong Hui 2’ OG)

North Harbour Stadium
Auckland
New Zealand
Sunday 16 November 2008
Kick-off: 16h00
Attendance: 16162.

USA: 18. Taylor VANCIL [gk], 3. Amber BROOKS, 4. Crystal DUNN, 6. Cloee COLOHAN (c), 7. Courtney VERLOO, 8.Vicki DiMARTINO (9. Sam JOHNSON 106'), 10. Kristie MEWIS, 11. Sam MEWIS, 13. Julia ROBERTS, 17. Rachel QUON, 20. Olivia KLEI (19. Elizabeth EDDY 61’).

Substitutes not used: 1.Alexa GAUL [rgk]; 2. Lexi HARRIS, 5.Erika TYMARI ; 12. Hayley BROCK; 14. Mandy LADDISH ;15. Kate BENNETT; 16. Morgan BRIAN; 21. Jenn PETTIGREW [rgk].

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None

Coach: Kazbek TAMBI (USA)

PRK: 1. HONG Myong Hui [gk]; 2. HYON Un Hui, 3. JON Hong Yon, 5. Sol Hui KIM, 6. UJ KIM (15. Un Ae RI 68’), 8. Yon Hui PAE © (19. Hyon Sun JANG 104’), 9. Un Byol HO, 10. Myong Hwa JON, 11. Hyon Hi YUN (7. Un Ju KIM 53’) 12. Hyon Mi KIM, 18. Un Hyang KIM.

Substitutes Not Used: 20. Hyang Hui RI [rgk], 21. Su Jong KIM [rgk], 4. Un Jong RYU, 13. Myong Hui JO, 14. Chol Ok RO, 16. Ok CHA, 17. Yu Ri JONG.

Yellow cards: 2. HYON Un Hui 117’.

Red cards: None.

Coach: Ui Ham RI (PRK)

Referee: Silvia REYES (PER)
Assistant Referee 1: Cleidy Mary RIBEIRO (BRA)
Assistant Referee 2: Maria BARBOSA (BRA)
4th official: Kirsi STOICESCU (ROU)

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008
 
England (0) 0
Germany (1) 3 (Inka WESLEY 11’, Turid KNAAK 74’, Lynn MESTER 88’)

North Harbour Stadium
Auckland
New Zealand
Sunday 16 November 2008
Kick-off: 13h00
Attendance: 

ENG: 1. Lauren DAVEY [gk], 5. Jodie JACOBS, 6. Gemma BONNER, 7. Rebecca JANE (20. Kirsty LINNETT 71’), 8. Jordan NOBBS ©, 9. Danielle CARTER, 11. Lucy STANIFORTH, 12. Lucia BRONZE (15. Jemma ROSE 89’), 14. Stephanie MARSH (17. Sarah WILTSHIRE 53’), 16. Lauren BRUTON, 18. Rachel PITMAN.

Substitutes Not Used: 2. Rachel DALY, 3. Naomi CHADWICK, 4 Jessica HOLBROOK; 10. Isobel CHRISTIANSEN, 13. Amy CARR [rgk], 19. Paige ELI, 21. Juliana DRAYCOTT [rgk].

Yellow cards: 12. Lucy BRONZE 41’.

Red cards: None.

Coach: Lois RIDLER (ENG)

GER: 12. Almuth SCHULT [gk], 3. Inka WESLEY, 4. Valeria KLEINER ©, 5. Carolin SIMON, 6. Marie-Louise BAGEHORN (19. Claudia GOTTE 70’), 7. Turid KNAAK, 8. Lynn MESTER, 10. Dzsenifer MAROZSAN, 11. Alexandra POPP, 15. Hasret KAYICKI (9. Tabea KEMME 52’), 20. Leonie MAIER (2. Angelina LUEBCKE 89’).

Substitutes Not Used: 1. Anna SARHOLZ [rgk], 13. Julia DEBITSKI, 14. Ivana RUDELIC, 16. Nicole ROSLER, 17. Isabelle LINDEN, 18. Svenja HUTH, 21. Lisa SCHMITZ [rgk].

Yellow cards: 2. Angelina LUEBCKE 90’+1.

Red cards: None

Coach: Ralf PETER (GER)

Referee: Natalia AVDONCHENKO (RUS)
Assistant Referee 1: Vivian PEETERS (NED)
Assistant Referee 2: Judit ROMANO (ESP)
4th official: WANG Michelle PYE (CAN)

AUCKLAND – Korea DPR were crowned inaugural FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup champions after a pulsating come from behind victory over the USA before 16162 fans at North Harbour Stadium this afternoon. The match opened in dramatic fashion when the USA took the lead after just two minutes when a long throw in by defender Cloee Colohan was deflected into the Korea DPR net by goalkeeper Myong Hui Hong.

Korea DPR responded to the situation immediately when Un Byol Ho cruised past three USA defenders only for Colohan to make a saving block tackle with just goalkeeper Vancil left to beat. The USA nearly doubled the lead shortly after when Sam Mewis nearly latched onto a Kristie Mews cross only for Un Hui Hon to intervene.

It was a nervy start to the match by Korea as the AFC qualifiers struggled to keep possession in the USA third thanks to a combination of wayward passes and solid defence.

USA fans held their collective breath on 24 minutes when a Un Byol Ho free-kick hit Taylor Vancil’s crossbar before it cannoned clear to safety. Vicky Di Martino had a good chance to re-establish USA’s ascendancy when she dribbled past three defenders before shooting goalwards. Korea DPR goalkeeper Hong seized the moment made amends for her earlier error with a timely save to deny Di Martino at close range.

Although the match was hardly a spectacle of quality football there was no shortage of drama and most of it was manufactured by Korea DPR. The introduction of three substitutes Un Ae Ri, Un Ju Kim and Hyon Sun Jang was the catalyst for some cutting edge creative moves for Korea DPR. With Un Byol Ho in combination with the two substitutes Korea DPR raised its game a notch.

The pressure told on 77 minutes when a sensational free kick by Un Ae Ri smacked the USA crossbar before returning into a penalty area melee. Un Ju Kim’s acrobatic overhead cross from wide on the left of Taylor Vancil’s six yard box looped toward Hyon Sun Jang who directed a powerful header into the empty net with USA defenders unable to prevent a deserved equaliser.

The USA were still reeling when Sol Hui Kim attempted another long range free kick just four minutes later from nearly 40 metres out but Vancil was more than equal to the task. Both teams appeared satisfied to be level at the end of ninety minutes and the mood prevailed in the first half of extra time with neither side able to create any further clear cut chances.

The second period of extra time saw the USA cause mayhem in the Korea DPR penalty area when another long throw in on 108 minutes by Colohan found Sam Johnson was headed wide with Korea DPR looking susceptible every time they conceded a throw in near their own penalty area.

Within sixty seconds the USA had spurned a second chance when Sam Mewis flashed a Colohan throw-in well wide. The theme continued when Johnson dashed past three Korea DPR defenders and rounded goalkeeper Hong before attempting to curl a right foot shot from an acute angle into the far post.

Korea DPR delivered the decisive blow when Un Byol Ho threaded an incisive pass through the USA defence for Hyon Sun Jang to latch onto. The substitute eluded two challenges before taking a right foot shot to the right of Taylor Vancil who could only get a glove on the substitute’s effort as it flew into the back of the net.

Korea DPR Coach Ri Ui Ham said the victory was reward for a lot of hard work.

"My players and I are very proud of this result. It was a tough game, as we expected it to be.

"But even when we went 1-0 down very early in the game, we showed strong character. We have been training very hard for a long time to achieve this, and we became stronger game by game.

"We came here with no other goal than the victory; our players were in perfect condition and showed it during the whole tournament. Throughout, we have been thinking only about our country and people, so we are happy that we will bring great pleasure to out motherland with this victory."

USA Coach Kazbek Tambi was proud of his teams performance despite the loss.

"I'm really proud of my kids for their efforts over the tournament and for coming so close to winning a world championship," he said.

"Obviously we're disappointed but North Korea played a tremendous game and we congratulate them.

"They did a great job of closing us down and outplayed us at times. But it was great match and great advert for women's football.

"This has been an awesome tournament, the level has been outstanding, and it has made a really strong statement about the state of the women's game."

* The total aggregate number of fans to attend all matches at the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup - New Zealand 2008 was 212000 far exceeding all expectations. The total surpassed the number that attended matches at the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup - Russia 2006 by 160000.

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008

Korea DPR (0) 1 (1) 2 (Un Hyang KIM 77’, JANG Hyon Sun 113’)
USA  (0) 1 (1) 1 (HONG Myong Hui 2’ OG)

North Harbour Stadium
Auckland
New Zealand
Sunday 16 November 2008
Kick-off: 16h00
Attendance: 16162.

USA: 18. Taylor VANCIL [gk], 3. Amber BROOKS, 4. Crystal DUNN, 6. Cloee COLOHAN (c), 7. Courtney VERLOO, 8.Vicki DiMARTINO (9. Sam JOHNSON 106'), 10. Kristie MEWIS, 11. Sam MEWIS, 13. Julia ROBERTS, 17. Rachel QUON, 20. Olivia KLEI (19. Elizabeth EDDY 61’).

Substitutes not used: 1.Alexa GAUL [rgk]; 2. Lexi HARRIS, 5.Erika TYMARI ; 12. Hayley BROCK; 14. Mandy LADDISH ;15. Kate BENNETT; 16. Morgan BRIAN; 21. Jenn PETTIGREW [rgk].

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None

Coach: Kazbek TAMBI (USA)

PRK: 1. HONG Myong Hui [gk]; 2. HYON Un Hui, 3. JON Hong Yon, 5. Sol Hui KIM, 6. UJ KIM (15. Un Ae RI 68’), 8. Yon Hui PAE © (19. Hyon Sun JANG 104’), 9. Un Byol HO, 10. Myong Hwa JON, 11. Hyon Hi YUN (7. Un Ju KIM 53’) 12. Hyon Mi KIM, 18. Un Hyang KIM.

Substitutes Not Used: 20. Hyang Hui RI [rgk], 21. Su Jong KIM [rgk], 4. Un Jong RYU, 13. Myong Hui JO, 14. Chol Ok RO, 16. Ok CHA, 17. Yu Ri JONG.

Yellow cards: 2. HYON Un Hui 117’.

Red cards: None.

Coach: Ui Ham RI (PRK)

Referee: Silvia REYES (PER)
Assistant Referee 1: Cleidy Mary RIBEIRO (BRA)
Assistant Referee 2: Maria BARBOSA (BRA)
4th official: Kirsi STOICESCU (ROU)

AUCKLAND - Its the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Final - New Zealand 2008 and Korea DPR and USA meet to decide who will be crowned world champions. Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) is pleased to bring you the best of the action from North Harbour Stadium this afternoon.

USA led Korea DPR by 1-0 after an own goal by goalkeeper Hong Myong Hui after just two minutes. But Korea DPR equalised on 77 minutes when Kim Un Hyang headed past Taylor Vancil after an acrobatic cross by Kim Un Ju. Korea DPR lifted the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup when substitute Hyon Sun Jang scored a 113th minute winner.

USA celebrate taking the lead after just 2 minutes after Korea DPR goalkeeper deflected a Colohan long throw into her own net

Kim Un Hyang and Olivia Klei in an aerial duel

Julia Roberts of the USA wins this challenge with her Korea DPR opponent

Taylor Vancil makes another great save for the USA as the tension mounts

The final whistle blows and Korea DPR are world champions!

Heartbreak for USA's Sam Mewis

USA skipper Clohe Colohan is consoled at the final whistle

Korea DPR lift the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup as OFC President/FIFA Vice President Reynald Temarii watches on

AUCKLAND - Germany claimed third place after an emphatic 3-0 win over England at North Harbour Stadium. Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) is pleased to bring fans the best action images from the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup - New Zealand 2008.

England's Rachel Pitman stops Leonie Maier of Germany

England's Danielle Carter on the ball with Lynn Mester of Germany in pursuit

Germany goalscorer Turid Knaak holds of Rachel Pitman of England

Lynn Mester watches on as England goalkeeper Lauren Davey can do nothing as Germany take a 3-0 lead

...and it's there, Mester scores for Germany

AUCKLAND – Germany claimed third place at New Zealand – 2008 after a comprehensive 3-0 win over England at North Harbour Stadium. Two set-pieces and a late breakaway goal helped seal the win for Ralf Peters team as England struggled to compete against a German team keen to make up for its shock semi-final elimination.

The best chance England enjoyed in a one-sided affair was a Danielle Carter long range shot just inside the penalty area on 9 minutes and forced German goalkeeper Almuth Schultz into a regulation save.

Germany dominated the early stages and deservedly took the lead after 11 minutes when a corner by Dzsenifer Marozsan was met with a thundering header at the far post from Inka Wesley. Wesley’s header left England goalkeeper Lauren Davey with no chance.

Germany could have doubled their lead on 29 minutes after Marozsan seized on a mistake by Lucia Bronze before striking a blistering long range shot at Davey. Hasret Kayicki got in on the act ten minutes later after a pass from Marozsan released the pacy striker only for Davey to make a save that kept England in the match.

England enjoyed the majority of ball possession throughout the match but could not unlock a German defence marshalled superbly by Valeria Kleiner. England ended the half on a positive note when a cross by Jordan Nobbs found the head of Jodie Jacobs only for the inspirational defender’s header to flash wide of Schultz’s upright.

The second-half proved a pedestrian affair but it was brought to life on 63 minutes when Germany midfielder Alexandra Popp smashed a shot against Lauren Davey’s left-hand upright. With the England goal at her mercy substitute Tabea Kemme’s follow-up went straight at a relieved Davey.

Germany grabbed their second goal on 74 minutes and it was no surprise it came from another set-piece. A Marozsan corner found Wesley unmarked at the backpost and her downward header into the six yard box navigated a neat corridor between England’s static defence that allowed Turid Knaak to finish from close range.

Jordan Nobbs briefly raised England hopes on 85 minutes when her fiery 35 yard drive crashed into Schultz’s right hand upright. However Germany had the last say when Lynn Mester added her team’s third goal after good work by Carolin Simon.

England coach Losi Fidler said Germany were worthy of their win.

"We had a lot of tired legs out there. The Germans deserved their win; physically, they were just too much for us. We tried our best to contain them but we didn't deal with their presence at set pieces.

But we've exceeded everyone's expectations here and I was proud of them again today in terms of the dignity and character they showed in defeat," Fidler said.

Fidler's opposite number Ralf Peter said claiming bronze capped off a memorable tournament for his young charges.

"We end the tournament satisfied to have reached our goal, which was to win a medal. Of course, we would have preferred to compete in the final, but you have to be able to accept what you deserve.

Today, we deserved to win and we have shown our true quality. Despite the disappointment of the semi-final, the girls are very happy today and leave the tournament with smiles on their faces," Peter said.

England Coach Lois Fidler said the team has exceeded everyones expectations.

"We had a lot of tired legs out there. The Germans deserved their win; physically, they were just too much for us.

"We tried our best to contain them but we didn't deal with their presence at set pieces. But we've exceeded everyone's expectations here and I was proud of them again today in terms of the dignity and character they showed in defeat."

German Coach Ralf Peter was satisfied with winning a medal at the tournament.

"We end the tournament satisfied to have reached our goal, which was to win a medal.

"Of course, we would have preferred to compete in the final, but you have to be able to accept what you deserve.

"Today, we deserved to win and we have shown our true quality. Despite the disappointment of the semi-final, the girls are very happy today and leave the tournament with smiles on their faces."

 

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008
 
England (0) 0
Germany (1) 3 (Inka WESLEY 11’, Turid KNAAK 74’, Lynn MESTER 88’))

North Harbour Stadium
Auckland
New Zealand
Sunday 16 November 2008
Kick-off: 13h00
Attendance: 

ENG: 1. Lauren DAVEY [gk], 5. Jodie JACOBS, 6. Gemma BONNER, 7. Rebecca JANE (20. Kirsty LINNETT 71’), 8. Jordan NOBBS ©, 9. Danielle CARTER, 11. Lucy STANIFORTH, 12. Lucia BRONZE (15. Jemma ROSE 89’), 14. Stephanie MARSH (17. Sarah WILTSHIRE 53’), 16. Lauren BRUTON, 18. Rachel PITMAN.

Substitutes Not Used: 2. Rachel DALY, 3. Naomi CHADWICK, 4 Jessica HOLBROOK; 10. Isobel CHRISTIANSEN, 13. Amy CARR [rgk], 19. Paige ELI, 21. Juliana DRAYCOTT [rgk].

Yellow cards: 12. Lucy BRONZE 41’.

Red cards: None.

Coach: Lois RIDLER (ENG)

GER: 12. Almuth SCHULT [gk], 3. Inka WESLEY, 4. Valeria KLEINER ©, 5. Carolin SIMON, 6. Marie-Louise BAGEHORN (19. Claudia GOTTE 70’), 7. Turid KNAAK, 8. Lynn MESTER, 10. Dzsenifer MAROZSAN, 11. Alexandra POPP, 15. Hasret KAYICKI (9. Tabea KEMME 52’), 20. Leonie MAIER (2. Angelina LUEBCKE 89’).

Substitutes Not Used: 1. Anna SARHOLZ [rgk], 13. Julia DEBITSKI, 14. Ivana RUDELIC, 16. Nicole ROSLER, 17. Isabelle LINDEN, 18. Svenja HUTH, 21. Lisa SCHMITZ [rgk].

Yellow cards: 2. Angelina LUEBCKE 90’+1.

Red cards: None

Coach: Ralf PETER (GER)

Referee: Natalia AVDONCHENKO (RUS)
Assistant Referee 1: Vivian PEETERS (NED)
Assistant Referee 2: Judit ROMANO (ESP)
4th official: WANG Michelle PYE (CAN)

The FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup - New Zealand 2008 concludes at North Harbour Stadium today with Fiji TV broadcasting the 3rd/4th playoff match between Germany and England and the final between Korea DPR and USA. The broadcast of these matches is brought to you courtesy of FIFA TV, SBS Australia, Fiji TV, Sky Pacific and OFC Media and Communications.

For the full listings see below:

Date:      Sunday 16 November 2008

Match:   2008 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Final

Match:   2008 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 3rd/4th play-off

Time:     12h00-17h30 FJT

CH:         Sky Pacific (CH8)  

 

The  FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup's hugely entertaining inaugural editon will reach a mouth-watering climax on Sunday when USA and Korea DPR battle it out for this category's first-ever world title. The impressive Asian champions have improved steadily as the tournament has progressed, while the young Americans now appear to be peaking after a shaky start to the competition.

Germany were many experts' favourites to make the final, but the Europeans were edged out by USA at the semi-final stage and instead contest an intriguing all-European third place play-off with England.

OFC Media would like to advise that the 3rd/4th Playoff match is now  available on CH8; live coverage will start around midday today.

Date:    Sun  16th Nov, 2008
Match:   2008 FIFA WWC U-17 NZ Final
Match:   2008 FIFA WWC U-17 NZ Final
Time:     3.00pm – 5.30pm FJT
CH:         Sky Pacific (CH8)              

Match of the day

Korea DPR-United States, 16 November, 16.00 local time, Auckland

Few would have bet on these two sides reaching the final after their initial group matches. The Koreans were held to a 1-1 draw by Ghana, while USA were comprehensively beaten by Japan. Yet as is so often the case in major tournaments, two sides who failed to shine early on are about to take the stage for the final.

Korea DPR upped their game noticeably in the knockout stages, crushing Denmark 4-0 in their quarter-final before disposing of England, 2-1 in the semis. Striker Myong Hwa Jon has the scoring knack and is unquestionably one of the revelations of the tournament. A number of USA players stand out too, including Kristie Mewis in midfield, striker Vicki DiMartino, who has found the net in every game so far, and defender Crystal Dunn, whose performance in shackling dangerous German striker Dzsenifer Marozsan in the semi-final was further proof of her growing maturity.

Other match
Germany-England, 16 November, 13.00 local time, Auckland

Whatever the result in this third place play-off, England have already enjoyed an expectation-busting tournament. Lois Fidler's girls were not among the pre-event favourites, but inflicted defeat on both Brazil and Nigeria en route to the knockout stages, where they shocked Japan before falling to Korea DPR in the semis.

Bitterly disappointed to lose to USA and thus miss out on the final, Ralf Peter's Germany side may find it harder to pick themselves up for this one. Providing they manage to put that galling semi-final loss behind them, the Germans should be favourites, especially as Marozsan will be aiming to make one final push for the top scorer and best player awards.

The stat
1 - The first editon of every FIFA women's tournament has so far been won by the United States. So can this crop of young Americans follow the lead of their predecessors who triumphed at the inaugural FIFA Womens World Cup, FIFA U-20 Womens World Cup and Women's Olympic Football Tournament?

What they said

"I think [the defeat to Japan] was definitely a good thing. We needed to learn what we had to do as a team and that game was a huge part of showing us where we needed to improve. Now our touches are a lot better and we're finding our rhythm a lot earlier in games. I think we're looking good for this one," Crystal Dunn, USA player.

The match schedule
Auckland
England-Germany (13.00)
Korea DPR-USA(16.00)

Story and image courtesy www.FIFA.com and Foto-Net

AUCKLAND – USA will meet Korea DPR in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Final in Auckland on Sunday after both sides won their respective semi finals 2-1 at QEII Stadium in Christchurch.

The Asian Champions saw off a late comeback by the English to earn their spot while USA scored two second half goals to come from behind against the Germans.

In a terrific match that would itself have made a worthy decider, USA produced their best performance of the tournament to edge out Ralf Peter's European champions in front of a crowd of 8,040 in New Zealand's Garden City.

Yet this thrilling semi-final began badly for the Americans, with Alexandra Popp rewarding Germany's greater early enterprise with a fine headed goal, bulleted home in seven minutes from Dzsenifer Marozsan's drilled corner.

USA looked to be on the ropes at this stage, but they bounced back to dominate a first half that witnessed both Mewis sisters hit the woodwork; Kristie cracking the post with a left-foot shot and Sam's looping header being denied by the crossbar.

The reward for their pressure finally came with 63 minutes played, when Germany goalkeeper Anna Sarholz flapped at a deep cross from substitute Erika Tymrak, allowing Vicki Di Martino to preserve her record of scoring in every game in New Zealand by poking home from close range.

Tambi's side had the bit between their teeth now and, with ten minutes remaining, Courtney Verloo scored a thoroughly merited winner, sweeping the ball into the net from close range after Amber Brooks had hit the bar and Julia Roberts scuffed her attempt to convert the rebound.

In the earlier match Lois Fidler's English side battled bravely, but couldn't conjure up another upset and will now move on to contest the third-place play-off against Germany.

Ultimately, England simply left themselves with too much to do, after falling two goals behind in the first half. The North Koreans had actually started poorly when, against the run of play, they took a 19th-minute lead.

Ho Un Byol claimed it, capitalising on some sloppy English defending to battle her way into a shooting position from which she fired the ball inside Lauren Davey's near post from a tight angle.

Jordan Nobbs came closest to restoring parity but then, a minute from half-time, England's hopes suffered a hammer blow as Jon Myong Hwa sneaked in to poke home her fourth goal of the tournament from close range, after Kim Un Hyang had scuffed her initial shot.

Korea DPR went on to play better in the second half than they had in the first, yet hopes were raised of another great English escape when Rebecca Jane scored with 16 minutes remaining, running through on to a Lauren Bruton reverse pass and slotting a side-foot shot beyond Hong Myong Hui.

It was to prove too little, too late, however, as Korea DPR held out for a win that maintains their unbeaten record in women's youth football.

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup New Zealand 2008 - Final
Sunday November 16, Auckland
North Harbour Stadium

3rd/4th Playoff – Germany v England 13H00
Final – USA v KOREA DPR 16H00
                    

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 – Semi Final
 
Korea DPR (2) 2 (9. Un Byol HO 19’; 10. Myong Hwa JON 44’;)
England (0) 1 (7. Rebecca Jane 72’)

QE II Stadium
Christchurch
New Zealand
Thursday 13 November 2008
Kick-off: 16h00
Attendance: 8,040

DPR: 1. HONG Myong Hui [gk]; 2. Un Hui HON, 3. Hong Yon JON, 5. Sol Hui KIM, 6. UJ KIM, 8. Yon Hui PAE © (7. Un Ju KIM 71’), 9. Un Byol HO, 10. Myong Hwa JON, 11. Hyon Hi YUN (19. Hyon Sun JANG 53’); 12. Hyon Mi KIM, 18. Un Hyang KIM (15. Un Ae RI 90+3);

Substitutes Not Used: 20. Hyang Hui RI [rgk], 21. Su Jong KIM [rgk], 4. Un Jong RYU, 13. Myong Hui JO, 14. Chol Ok RO, 16. Ok CHA, 17. Yu Ri JONG,

Yellow cards: 2. Un Hui HON 50’; 1. HONG Myong Hui 68’; 19. Hyon Sun Jang 90+2’;

Red cards: None.

Coach: Ri Ui Ham (PRK)

ENG: 1. Lauren DAVEY [gk]; 2. Rachel DALY; 3. Naomi CHADWICK (14. Stephanie MARSH 55’), 5. Jodie JACOBS, 7. Rebecca JANE, 8. Jordan NOBBS ©, 9. Danielle CARTER, 10. Isobel CHRISTIANSEN, 11. Lucy STANIFORTH (17. Sarah WILTSHIRE 85’); 12. Lucia BRONZE, 16. Lauren BRUTON;

Substitutes Not Used: 6. Gemma BONNER; 13. Amy CARR [rgk], 15. Jemma ROSE, , 20. Kirsty LINNETT, 21. Juliana DRAYCOTT [rgk]. 4 Jessica HOLBROOK; 19. Paige ELI; 18. Rachel PITMAN;

Yellow cards: 12. Lucia BRONZE 89’;

Red cards: None.

Coach: Lois RIDLER (ENG)

Referee: Michelle PYE (CAN)
Assistant Referee 1: Emperatriz AYALA (SLV)
Assistant Referee 2: Mayte CHAVEZ (MEX)
Fourth Official: Kirsi SAVOLAINEN (FIN)

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 – Semi Final
 
USA (0) 2 (8. Vicki DiMARTINO 63’; 7. Courtney VERLOO 81’)
GERMANY (1) 1 (11. Alexandra POPP 6’)

QE II Stadium
Christchurch
New Zealand
Thursday 13 November 2008
Kick-off: 19h00
Attendance: 8,040

USA: 18. Taylor VANCIL [gk]; 3. Amber BROOKS; 4. Crystal DUNN; 6. Cloee COLOHAN (c); 7. Courtney VERLOO; 8.Vicki DiMARTINO (9. Sam JOHNSON 82’); 10. Kristie MEWIS; 11. Sam MEWIS; 13. Julia ROBERTS, 17. Rachel QUON; 20. Olivia KLEI (5.Erika TYMARK 61’)

Substitutes not used: 1.Alexa GAUL [rgk]; 2. Lexi HARRIS; 12. Hayley BROCK; 14. Mandy LADDISH ;15. Kate BENNETT; 16. Morgan BRIAN; 21.Jenn PETTIGREW [rgk]. 19.Elizabeth EDDY;

Yellow cards: 3. Amber BROOKS 69’;

Red cards: None

Coach: Kazbek TAMBI (USA)

GER: 1. Anna SARHOLZ [gk]; 3. Inka WESLEY, 4. Valeria KLEINER ©, 5. Carolin SIMON, 6. Marie-Louise BAGEHORN (14. Ivana RUDELIC 83’), 7. Turid KNAAK; 8. Lynn MESTER; 9. Tabea KEMME (18. Svenja HUTH 85’); 10.Dzsenifer MAROZSAN; 11.Alexandra POPP; 20. Leonie MAIER;

Substitutes Not Used: 2. Angelina LUEBCKE; 12. Almuth SCHULT [rgk]; 13. Julia DEBITSKI; 21. Lisa SCHMITZ [rgk]; 16. Nicole ROSLER,16.ROLSER; 19. Claudia GOTTE; 17. Isabelle LINDEN; 15. Hasret  KAYICKI;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None

Coach: Ralf PETER (GER)

Referee: CHA Sung Mi (KOR)
Assistant Referee 1: KIM Kyoung Min (KOR)
Assistant Referee 2: LEE Seul Gi (KOR)
Fourth Official: AVDONCHENKO Natalia (RUS)

CHRISTCHURCH - USA came from behind to claim a dramatic and deserved 2-1 victory over Germany today at QEII Stadium in Christchurch and have set up an intriguing final with Korea DPR.

In a terrific match that would itself have made a worthy decider, Kazbek Tambi's side produced their best performance of the tournament to edge out Ralf Peter's European champions in front of a crowd of 8,040 in New Zealand's Garden City.

Yet this thrilling semi-final began badly for the Americans, with Alexandra Popp rewarding Germany's greater early enterprise with a fine headed goal, bulleted home in seven minutes from Dzsenifer Marozsan's drilled corner.

USA looked to be on the ropes at this stage, but they bounced back to dominate a first half that witnessed both Mewis sisters hit the woodwork; Kristie cracking the post with a left-foot shot and Sam's looping header being denied by the crossbar.

The reward for their pressure finally came with 63 minutes played, when Germany goalkeeper Anna Sarholz flapped at a deep cross from substitute Erika Tymrak, allowing Vicki Di Martino to preserve her record of scoring in every game in New Zealand by poking home from close range.

Tambi's side had the bit between their teeth now and, with ten minutes remaining, Courtney Verloo scored a thoroughly merited winner, sweeping the ball into the net from close range after Amber Brooks had hit the bar and Julia Roberts scuffed her attempt to convert the rebound.

German Coach Ralf Peter said USA deserved their win, though his side are bitterly dissapointed.

"We started very well and could have scored a second goal," he said. 

"But after 15 minutes, we stopped playing. Against a team like USA, you can't win if you don't play at your best level during the whole match.

"They were just better and deserved their victory. After having won the European Championship, we wanted to win the World Cup. Now this dream has gone but there is still bronze to play for, and we'll fight for that.

USA Coach Kazbek Tambi was full of pride after the final whistle/

"I'm so, so proud of the kids, not only because they've won a World Cup semi-final against a great team like Germany, but because of the way they won it," he said. 

"We've played a great brand of soccer out there. The way they came from behind was the ultimate demonstration of their character and their workrate was incredible too.

"I have players in there cramping up because they've left everything out on the field there, and that was exactly what we asked of them."

Photos provided by FIFA Media/ Foto-Net. For more visit www.fifa.com

Germanys Alexandra Popp heading home the opening goal

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 – Semi Finals
 
USA (0) 2 (8. Vicki DiMARTINO 63’; 7. Courtney VERLOO 81’)
GERMANY (1) 1 (11. Alexandra POPP 6’)

QE II Stadium
Christchurch
New Zealand
Thursday 13 November 2008
Kick-off: 19h00
Attendance: 8,040

USA: 18. Taylor VANCIL [gk]; 3. Amber BROOKS; 4. Crystal DUNN; 6. Cloee COLOHAN (c); 7. Courtney VERLOO; 8.Vicki DiMARTINO (9. Sam JOHNSON 82’); 10. Kristie MEWIS; 11. Sam MEWIS; 13. Julia ROBERTS, 17. Rachel QUON; 20. Olivia KLEI (5.Erika TYMARK 61’)

Substitutes not used: 1.Alexa GAUL [rgk]; 2. Lexi HARRIS; 12. Hayley BROCK; 14. Mandy LADDISH ;15. Kate BENNETT; 16. Morgan BRIAN; 21.Jenn PETTIGREW [rgk]. 19.Elizabeth EDDY;

Yellow cards: 3. Amber BROOKS 69’;

Red cards: None

Coach: Kazbek TAMBI (USA)

GER: 1. Anna SARHOLZ [gk]; 3. Inka WESLEY, 4. Valeria KLEINER ©, 5. Carolin SIMON, 6. Marie-Louise BAGEHORN (14. Ivana RUDELIC 83’), 7. Turid KNAAK; 8. Lynn MESTER; 9. Tabea KEMME (18. Svenja HUTH 85’); 10.Dzsenifer MAROZSAN; 11.Alexandra POPP; 20. Leonie MAIER;

Substitutes Not Used: 2. Angelina LUEBCKE; 12. Almuth SCHULT [rgk]; 13. Julia DEBITSKI; 21. Lisa SCHMITZ [rgk]; 16. Nicole ROSLER,16.ROLSER; 19. Claudia GOTTE; 17. Isabelle LINDEN; 15. Hasret  KAYICKI;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None

Coach: Ralf PETER (GER)

Referee: CHA Sung Mi (KOR)
Assistant Referee 1: KIM Kyoung Min (KOR)
Assistant Referee 2: LEE Seul Gi (KOR)
Fourth Official: AVDONCHENKO Natalia (RUS)

CHRISTCHURCH – Korea DPR have secured the first spot in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Final after they saw off a late attempted comeback to win 2-1 over England today at QEII stadium.

After a slow start the game picked up intensity and excitement late on, when it looked like England could possibly stage the great escape – part two – following their last minute heroics against Japan in the quarterfinal.

A goal from English midfielder Rebecca Jane in the 72nd minute gave the Lions hope but the classy, calm Korean heads prevailed and they scored a deserved spot in the competitions showpiece final.

England dominated the opening 15 minutes of the match – confident that an aggressive approach was the key to getting the better of their Asian opponents.

But for all their possession and urgency they were unable to break down the stubborn Korean defence and create any clear cut opportunities on goal. After weathering the storm Korea eventually found their feet and took over the match.

Korea opened the scoring in the 19th minute when striker Un Buol Ho dispossessed English defender Naomi Chadwick inside the six yard box. Ho was able to turn and fire the ball home from a very acute angle to give the Asian champions the lead.

Englands best chance of the half came from captain Jordan Nobbs who hit a terrific dipping shot from outside the box that Korean Goalkeeper Myong Hui Hong magnificently tipped over the bar with one hand.

One minute before halftime Myong Hwa Jon doubled Korea’s advantage after some industrious work down the right hand side by Hyon Hui Hong. Her well placed cut back was fired toward goal by Un Hyang Kim and Jon got the final touch.

The second half was dominated by Korean possession and English counter attacks. Wave after wave of attack was cleared away by the English defence until Jane got the breakthrough they were waiting for in the 72nd minute.

Lauren Bruton slipped a clever ball in behind the Korean defence and Jane sprinted onto it – slipping the ball past the advancing Korean goalkeeper to give her side a lifeline.

The final twenty minutes was played at a frenetic pace with England pushing forward for the equaliser and Korea looking to kill the match off.

Korean substitute Hyon Sun Jang had the best chance to make the game safe when she latched onto a ball over the top of the English defence, only for her right footed lob to fall safely into the hands of the England goalkeeper.

Korean Coach Ri Ui Ham credited the win to being clinical in the attacking third.

"I don't think that we won because the English players were more tired than mine," he said. 

"The physical abilities were the same on both sides and we won because we were more clinical.

"We scored with our first good attempts and that made the difference. Then, we just cotrolled the game, even when they came back at 2-1.

"For the final, I have no preference. We already know Germany because we played against them, and if it's USA, that will be something new for us."

English Coach Lois Fidler was proud of her girls, but felt they deserved more.

"I think our girls deserved to get more out of the game. I'm very proud of them: they were resilient and showed great character again.

"We've had a lot of criticism here for coming out on top in games when we've not been the better side, but on this occasion I think it was the other way round.

"But we wish the Koreans all the best in the final and we'll prepare for the third place game as we would have for the final."

Korea will meet the winner of the Semi Final between Germany and USA played at 19H00 at QEII stadium

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 – Semi Finals
 
Korea DPR (2) 2 (9. Un Byol HO; 10. Myong Hwa JON;)
England (0) 1 (7. Rebecca Jane 72’)
QE II Stadium
Christchurch
New Zealand
Thursday 13 November 2008
Kick-off: 16h00
 

DPR: 1. HONG Myong Hui [gk]; 2. Un Hui HON, 3. Hong Yon JON, 5. Sol Hui KIM, 6. UJ KIM, 8. Yon Hui PAE © (7. Un Ju KIM 71’), 9. Un Byol HO, 10. Myong Hwa JON, 11. Hyon Hi YUN (19. Hyon Sun JANG 53’); 12. Hyon Mi KIM, 18. Un Hyang KIM (15. Un Ae RI 90+3);

Substitutes Not Used: 20. Hyang Hui RI [rgk], 21. Su Jong KIM [rgk], 4. Un Jong RYU, 13. Myong Hui JO, 14. Chol Ok RO, 16. Ok CHA, 17. Yu Ri JONG,

Yellow cards: 2. Un Hui HON 50’; 1. HONG Myong Hui 68’; 19. Hyon Sun Jang 90+2’;

Red cards: None.

Coach: Ri Ui Ham (PRK)

ENG: 1. Lauren DAVEY [gk]; 2. Rachel DALY; 3. Naomi CHADWICK (14. Stephanie MARSH 55’), 5. Jodie JACOBS, 7. Rebecca JANE, 8. Jordan NOBBS ©, 9. Danielle CARTER, 10. Isobel CHRISTIANSEN, 11. Lucy STANIFORTH (17. Sarah WILTSHIRE 85’); 12. Lucia BRONZE, 16. Lauren BRUTON;

Substitutes Not Used: 6. Gemma BONNER; 13. Amy CARR [rgk], 15. Jemma ROSE, , 20. Kirsty LINNETT, 21. Juliana DRAYCOTT [rgk]. 4 Jessica HOLBROOK; 19. Paige ELI; 18. Rachel PITMAN;

Yellow cards: 12. Lucia BRONZE 89’;

Red cards: None.

Coach: Lois RIDLER (ENG)

Referee: Michelle PYE (CAN)
Assistant Referee 1: Emperatriz AYALA (SLV)
Assistant Referee 2: Mayte CHAVEZ (MEX)
Fourth Official: Kirsi SAVOLAINEN (FIN)

Of the 16 teams that began this FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2008, only four remain. Korea DPR, England, Germany and USA are now only one win away from a coveted place in the final. The semi-final losers will have to console themselves with a third-place play-off.

In the first semi, Korea DPR face England in an unexpected first-ever meeting between the two sides. The other features usual suspects Germany and USA in a clash that promises to be quite a spectacle for the crowd at QEII Park in Christchurch.

While Germany cruised through the group stage, the young Americans had to battle all the way. Ralf Peter's side were guaranteed a spot in the knockout stages after two matches. Kazbek Tambi's charges, in contrast, were indebted to some fine saves from keeper Taylor Vancil in the closing minutes of their final match against France to stay in the competition. Neither side were greatly troubled in their quarter-final wins over Canada and Korea Republic respectively.

This is a classic encounter between the top two ranked teams in the world, who have met 22 times at senior level. It will also pit two of the best young players in the world against each other: Germany's Dzsenifer Marozsan and American Kristie Mewis.

England will be happy in the underdog role, having consistently upset the odds throughout the tournament. Yet the stats would point to a victory for Ri Un Ham girls. At U-20 and U-17 level, the Koreans have a record of eight wins, two draws and no defeats at global tournaments. The AFC champions drew 1-1 with Germany at the group stage and thumped Denmark 4-0 in the quarter-final.

The English squad will feel they have a good chance nonetheless, especially after edging through the group stage and then knocking out huge favourites Japan, who most experts predicted would at least make the final. Lois Fidler's team are well marshalled at the back by Lucy Bronze, and are dangerous when shooting from distance.

The stat
7 - the number of times Germany and USA have met at the semi-final stage of a FIFA women's competition. The USA currently lead 5-2. Remarkably, the winner of these semi-final clashes has always gone on to lift the trophy.

What they said
"We have great respect for Germany. I hope we do our best and give our all. Whether we win or lose, I know I'll be proud of my players," Kazbek Tambi, USA coach.

The match schedule
Christchurch, 13 November
Korea DPR-England (16.00)
Germany-USA (19.00)

Story provided by FIFA Media. For more visit www.fifa.com

AUCKLAND - Franz Beckenbauer – widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time – is on his way to New Zealand in time for the climax of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

The German legend, the only man to have won the FIFA World Cup both as a captain (1974) and as a manager (1990), is expected to arrive in Christchurch this Thursday to attend the semi-finals at QEII Park then travel to Auckland for the final at North Harbour Stadium on Sunday 16 November.

Chris Simpson, CEO of the Local Organising, says hosting Beckenbauer will be a huge honour.

“It is fantastic to have such an icon of world football coming to New Zealand for this tournament,” Simpson said. “I think it will create a real buzz among the football community.”

Beckenbauer is Deputy Chairman of the Organising Committee for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and is a FIFA Executive Committee member. He was also President of the Organising Committee for the FIFA World Cup in Germany 2006.

As a player he earned 103 caps for West Germany, scored 14 goals, played in three FIFA World Cups – winning in West Germany in 1974 – and also won a European Championship in 1972. He is one of only two players in FIFA World Cup history to have won the complete collection of medals (gold, silver, bronze).

In 1972 and 1976 Beckenbauer was voted European Player of the Year and picked up  the German Footballer of the Year titles in 1966, 1968, 1974, 1976. His elegant style, leadership qualities and dominance as a defender earned him the nickname Der Kaiser (the emperor).

On Thursday at QEII Park, Beckenbauer will no doubt be cheering on the German U-17 women’s team as they kick-off against USA at 7:00pm in the second semi-final. Prior to that game Christchurch will host the first semi-final at 4:00pm between the current U-20 world champions Korea DPR and the underdog English team.

The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup will conclude with the 3rd/4th place play-off and final at 1:00pm and 4:00pm at North Harbour Stadium this Sunday.

Organisers hope the tournament ends on the highest possible note with bumper crowds in both Christchurch and Auckland for the final two match days.

Story courtesy of NZF Media. For more visit www.nzsoccer.com

The story of England at major competitions has become as tired and predictable as any in football.

Inevitably, it begins with big stars and bigger hype, and invariably ends with the Three Lions having again proved a collection of talented individuals rather than a team in the truest sense. And of course the climax is the most foreseeable of all. They lose. In the quarter-finals. On penalties.

It was understandable, therefore, that when 120 minutes could not yield a winner in their last eight showdown with Japan, England's U-17 women were tipped by some onlookers to follow the pattern established by their senior men. That they did not, emerging from the shootout with a 100 per cent success rate, offered further confirmation that Lois Fidler's Lionesses are a very different kind of England team.

They have talent, of course; they would not be in the semi-finals otherwise. Their strength, however, lies not in any emerging female Steven Gerrard or Wayne Rooney, but rather in the tactical discipline, dogged determination and unshakeable unity that saw them through against the technically superior Japanese.

And there is another difference that is proving crucial. In scraping into this tournament as Europe's fourth and final qualifier, Fidler's team succeeded in subverting another English tradition by taking their place among the tournament's underdogs rather than its favourites. It is a role in which they have clearly been revelling.

"No-one gave us a chance against Japan but that was nothing new," said Fidler. "Even when the draw was made, people wrote us off in terms of getting out of a group that had Brazil, Nigeria and South Korea. So we've been underdogs from the start and, being honest, we've played on that with the girls. I think it's really galvanised them and maybe that's why our best performances have come when we've not been expected to win.

"We've definitely had a point to prove here. At one time we thought only three European teams would be going to this tournament, which meant we wouldn't be. So when we found out the fourth-placed team would also get a place, we sat the players down and told them they had to go out and show the world they weren't just here by default."

The basis for England confounding expectations has been the fearless conviction with which they have approached every fresh test, a mindset exemplified in their flawless showing in that dramatic shootout. Fidler, who described the victory as the proudest moment of her career, revealed later that her team had been practising spot kicks every day, while Isobel Christiansen joked that "the English women have the secret to it". "Just hit the target," she advised. "And hit the corner."

Christiansen, who admitted she had "no idea" how she managed to produce the stunning 40-yard thunderbolt that hauled England back from the abyss, also revealed there had been no trepidation about facing the free-scoring Japanese. She said: "We'd done a lot of research and we weren't scared of them because we could see they had weaknesses. Because they'd been so dominant in games, we saw they hadn't really been tested defensively and felt we could hurt them going forward."

Just as importantly, the English succeeded in blunting the tournament's most deadly strikeforce, with Lucy Bronze's tireless, tenacious marking of Mana Iwabuchi crucial in preventing the kind of defeats that had befallen USA, France and Paraguay. Typically of this England side, however, the Sunderland star was modest about her own contribution.

"It was all down to the coaching really," she said. "I knew [Iwabuchi] was outstanding but I'd been shown inside-out how she plays, so I knew exactly how to approach the job. Really, I think the key for us is that we always stick together, no matter what."

Now, having already exceeded expectations, England will hope this same strength in unity can see them through a third successive Asian test against the continental champions, Korea DPR.

"They'll be great, I'm sure," said Christiansen of a side that demolished Denmark 4-0 in the quarter-finals. "But if we play like we did against Japan, we'll be in the final."

Story courtesy of FIFA Media. For more visit www.fifa.com

Mana Iwabuchi wasn't the first player to cry at New Zealand 2008 and you can rest assured she will not be the last.

Yet although tears have followed each and every side's exit from this competition, there was something especially heart-rending about the sobbing of a player who had provided such joy to the watching public. Hamilton, in particular, had fallen head over heels in love with Japan's talismanic No10, an outstanding natural talent who on three separate occasions had captivated the northern city with her darting, elusive dribbling and eye-popping improvisation.

So moved were the Hamilton public by Iwabuchi's brilliance, in fact, that as the 15-year-old tried in vain to choke back the tears, one stadium volunteer instinctively gave the midfielder a hug, while another asked the team's interpreter to translate a message of thanks for the entertainment she had provided. At this, the diminutive 15-year-old's sobbing stopped, for a time at least, as she bowed her head respectfully in a gesture that made clear the gratitude was mutual.

Her coach was also quick to acknowledge the backing Japan had received, reacting with delight and pride after volunteers and stadium staff formed a spontaneous guard of honour to applaud his players as they returned, disconsolate, to their team coach.

"That made me very happy," said Hiroshi Yoshida. "It is always very satisfying to know that people have enjoyed and been excited to watch you play football. I must say we have really enjoyed and appreciated all the great support we have received from all the people here in New Zealand. It has been a very special experience."

Yet as grateful as they may be for the esteem and affection of their hosts, Japan did not come to New Zealand to win hearts. Indeed, for Iwabuchi, not even the prospect of challenging for the adidas Golden Ball as one of the tournament's outstanding players can lessen her regret that the Young Nadeshiko will be remembered as the tournament's great entertainers rather than as its champions.

"It would be a great honour if I was considered but I will still be very sad because, even now, I am sad not for myself but for the team," she told FIFA.com. "I wanted the whole team to receive some recognition and reward here at this tournament and now that won't be possible."

That, of course, is not strictly true. After all, while Iwabuchi and Co are not returning home with the trophy, they have earned recognition in the form of glowing praise from observers and opponents alike, with England coach Lois Fidler lauding them as "fantastic" and "stars of the future". Yet such plaudits, though pleasing, do not disguise the sad fact that Japan's New Zealand 2008 story will be remembered as a tale of promise unfulfilled.

So, where did all go wrong? Yoshida, to his credit, declined to seek the refuge of hard luck stories, instead reproaching his players for the wastefulness and complacency they had shown in failing to finish off England when they had the chance.

He said: "It all comes down to the fact we didn't score when we had the opportunities - that is why we are going home. But I also think that, because my players had scored a lot of goals during the group stage, they came into this game thinking they were favourites."

Yoshida's fault-finding was not without foundation, and yet in general the Japanese coach proved as sanguine in defeat as he had in victory, insisting that this setback will help his players challenge for U-20 and senior titles in years to come. "I don't consider this loss to be a negative thing," he said. "I actually feel the players will learn a lot from this and we will see the benefits of that once they reach the senior team."

For Iwabuchi, that step-up looks certain to be made sooner rather than later, and the development of one of women's football's brightest emerging talents is sure to be followed with interest. But what does she herself envisage the future holding? "My dream is to become a great player and to play in the national team," was her response. "And to become a world champion."

If that latter goal can be realised, the cheers from Hamilton are likely to be heard all the way to Tokyo.

Story provided by Fifa Media. For more visit www.fifa.com

The third quarter-final of the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup - New Zealand 2008 is underway, with the impressive Japan taking on traditional superpower England.

OFC Media will once again endeavour to bring you the latest action from Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, as it happens via 'live' text updates.

Please refresh your browser periodically to keep up with the latest events.

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LIVE UPDATES:

0' - the anthems have been staged and an enthusiastic crowd building beneath overcast skies on a breezy Hamilton afternoon

1' - Japan have the kick-off with England under pressure straight away, a last-ditch saving tackle from Isobel CHRISTIANSEN the only thing saving an early deficit

1' - England come back on the counter, with Rebecca JANE's speculative cross landing on top of the Japanese crossbar before it is cleared

2' - Mana IWABUCHI is one-on-one with Lauren DAVEY, but rolls her finish wide from 15 yards on the angle

7' - play is beginning to even out, with both sides enjoying sustained possession

8' - GOAL!

IWABUCHI collects the ball in midfield and spots #9. Chinatsu KIRA's diagonal run, who is clear on DAVEY and slides her finish across the English 'keeper and off the left-hand post to give Japan the lead

10' - Chiaki SHIMADA goes close with a long-range effort struck first-time after collecting a Japanese corner

11' - England are fast on the counter-attack, JANE's cross again not finding any support

12' - CHRISTIANSEN attempts an audacious volley from 20 yards, shooting wide to the right of the Japanese goal

14' - CHRISTIANSEN is again in the action, setting off on a mazy dribble from half-way before being snuffed out by three Japanese defenders on the edge of the D

15' - DAVEY saves well after some impressive inter-play by the Japanese midfield results in a shot from KIRA un-marked at the top of the area

17' - a Yuko TAKEYAMA dribble and cross finds a powerful well-timed run from KIRA at the near-post, but DAVEY leaves her line well to meet her as Gemma BONNER clears for a corner

19' - IWAGUCHI has time to pick her spot from 10 yards on the angle, but shoots across goal, though earning a deflection for the corner

19' - DAVEY rises well through a crowd to hold the ensuing corner

20' - Lucy BRONZE slides well to concede a corner from another menacing IWAGUCHI through-ball

25' - England are now enjoying shared periods of possession and a brief respite from concerted Japanese pressure

27' - BRONZE is again superb in cover-defence, beating KIRA to an expectional Akane SAITO through-ball down the left side

28' - KIRA leaves the field on a stretcher after BRONZE' strong but fair challenge, and play resumes

30' - BRONZE brings the ball from defence this time for a deflected pass to leave Danielle CARTER in a race to the ball with Japanese 'keeper Sakiko IKEDA, who gets there first and holds

32' - KIRA returns, sporting thick strapping on her left thigh

36' - England are again resurgent, with Koza CHIBA blocking a snapped CARTER shot

39' - a bending SHIMADA free-kick from 30 yards on the right-hand side streaks across the English 6-yard box, but is cleared on the second attempt

40' - DAVEY is quick to react, leaving her area to clear a deep through-ball from the Japanese midfield

43' - play is stopped briefly while Rachel DALY receives treatment in the English area for cramp

44' - CARTER has space on the left-hand side for the English, but has no support and play breaks down

-- 1 minute added time --

45'+1 - GOAL!

#11. Lucy STANIFORTH carries the ball well from half-way, through a number of Japanese defenders, and powers her finish past IKEDA from the edge of the area

HALF TIME: JAP 1 ENG 1

46' - the second half is underway, with skies clearing and the wind at the English team's backs

48' - DAVEY is sharply off her line again, taking KIRA's shot to the body and clearing long down-field

52' - England are really taking it to the Japanese, with the wind a major factor

55' - Japan are starting to come back at the English, with Akane SAITO firing a dangerous cross from deep across goal

58' - #12. Stephanie MARSH replaces #2. Rachel DALY

62' - CARTER and Natsuki ISHIKAWA battle well for possession high on the English right-side, resulting in a throw for England

65' - BRONZE wins her challenge on the edge of the area, but obstructs the ball and Japan are awarded a free kick

66' - SHIMADA strikes a powerful, bending drive into the English wall

69' - SHIMADA streaks past a limping BRONZE, but BONNER covers well to clear for England

71' - DAVEY makes yet another outbound clearance

72' - goalscorer #11. Lucy STANIFORTH makes way for #18. Rachel PITMAN

74' - Japan make their first change with #20. Yoko TANAKA taking the field for #7. Chiaki SHIMADA, who heads straight for the changing sheds for treatment 

78' - CARTER dribbles from deep and across goal, but fires a right-footed drive across IKEDA who cautiously tips the ball for a corner

80' - #14. Kei YOSHIOKA replaces #12. Yuiko INOUE

81' - SAITO works a throw well to create a chance from which she narrowly misses the top right corner

82' - GOAL!

#10. Mana IWABUCHI collects a deep clearance, rounds the ailing BRONZE and fires her finish past a hapless DAVEY from close-range

84' - DAVEY keeps England in the fixture by rushing well to beat YOSHIOKA to the ball and clear

86' - CARTER produces a timely defensive header from a Japanese corner

87' - SAITO again creates space in the English area, but her squared cross to YOSHIOKA is awkward to finish

88' - Natsumi KAMEOKA has a go from distance, clearing the crossbar but causing DAVEY to make a desperate attempted save

-- 3 minutes added time --

90' - Japan look to run down the clock, and secure their passage into the semi's

90'+1 - GOAL!

CARTER lays off for #10. Isobel CHRISTIANSEN, whose audacious shot from 35 yards finds the top left corner

90'+4 - DAVEY produces a falling save from a well-placed KISHIKAWA free kick

90'+4' - the English defence produces a succession of goal-line clearances, as supporters and officials beg for the full-time whistle

FULL TIME: JAP 2 ENG 2

92' - YAMABUCHI receives at the top of the D, beats four English defenders, but fires her shot straight at DAVEY from the angle of the six-yard box

95' - Japan, again with the wind at their backs, are dominating possession

98' - DAVEY parries ISHIKAWA's free kick from wide on the left away for a throw

102' - both sides are visibly tiring, with frequency of turnovers increasing

104' - the Japanese defence scrambles well to clear the ball following some determined play from CARTER

HALF TIME, EXTRA TIME: JAP 2 ENG 2

106' - #19. Paige ELI replaces #7. Rebecca JANE

106' - a defensive mix-up results in a Japanese corner, from which KAMEOKA's long-range effort is saved expertly by DAVEY

110' - SAITO has a go from distance, but clears the crossbar into the wind

112' - #14. Kei YOSHIOKA is replaced by #19. Haruka HAMADA

113' - SAITO has an ambitious strike from wide on the bye-line, only finding the top of the net

120' - DAVEY saves spectacularly from KIRA at close-range, for BONNER to clear and send the match to penalties

FULL TIME, EXTRA TIME: JAP 2 ENG 2

PENALTY KICKS:

KIRA shoots low to DAVEY's right, giving Japan the early advantage

England captain Jordan NOBBS fires a strong shot to the right hand corner of the goal

TAKEYAMA replicates KIRA's attempt, with a little more power

Lauren BRUTON bundles her effort into the left hand corner

MISS! DAVEY saves well at her feet to bring despair upon KAMEOKA

CARTER slots in the top right corner to give England an advantage

KISHIKAWA shoots low and left to keep Japan alive

PITMAN cooly strike the ball into the top of the net

SAITO must score to keep Japan alive...DAVEY gets an excellent low hand again, but can not deflect

BONNER steps up to put England through...and hammers a high drive into the top left

ENGLAND win 5-4 on penalties!

--

MATCH PHOTOS:

*all pictures courtesy of Foto-Net and Action Images

--

FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup - New Zealand 2008

Quarter Final [3]

Japan (1) 2 (Kira 8', Iwabuchi 82')
England (1) 2* (Staniforth 45'+1, Christiansen 90'+1)

*England win 5-4 on penalties

Waikato Stadium
Hamilton
New Zealand

Sunday 9 November 2008

Kick-off: 13H00 (NZT)
Attendance: 7247

--

JPN: 2. Koze CHIBA; 4. Nagisa OKUDA; 5. Natsuki KISHIKAWA [c]; 6. Natsumi KAMEOKA; 7. Chiaki SHIMADA (20. Yoko TANAKA 74'); 8. Yuko TAKEYAMA; 9. Chinatsu KIRA; 10. Mana IWABUCHI; 11. Akane SAITO; 12. Yuiko INOUE (14. Kei YOSHIOKA 80')(19. Haruka HAMADA 112'); 16. Sakiko IKEDA [gk].

Coach: Hiroshi YOSHIDA (JPN)

Substitutes not used: 1. Saki NAKAMURA [gk]; 13. Takako SUGIYAMA; 15. Saori TAKAHASHI; 17. Minami ISHIDA; 18. Marika OSHIMA; 21. Avaka SAITOH [gk].

Suspended: 3. Minori CHIBA

Injured:

Not available:

Yellow cards:

Red cards:

--

ENG: 1. Lauren DAVEY [gk]; 2. Rachel DALY (14. Stephanie MARSH 58'); 3. Naomi CHADWICK; 6. Gemma BONNER; 7. Rebecca JANE (19. Paige ELI 106'); 8. Jordan NOBBS [c]; 9. Danielle CARTER; 10. Isobel CHRISTIANSEN; 11. Lucy STANIFORTH (18. Rachel PITMAN 72'); 12. Lucy BRONZE; 16. Lauren BRUTON.

Coach: Lois FIDLER (ENG)

Substitutes not used: 13. Amy CARR [gk]; 15. Jemma ROSE; 17. Sarah WILTSHIRE; 20. Kirsty LINNETT; 21. Juliana DRAYCOTT [gk].

Suspended: 5. Jodie JACOBS 

Injured: 4. Jessica HOLBROOK

Not available:

Yellow cards:

Red cards:

--

Referee: Quetzalli ALVARADO (MEX)

Assistant Referee 1: Lixy ENRIQUEZ (MEX)

Assistant Referee 2: Mayte CHAVEZ (MEX)

Fourth Official: Damgoua NEGUEL (CMR)

  

WELLINGTON - The Asian and European champions booked their places in the last four of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup today after comfortably negotiating their respective quarter-finals in sun-kissed Wellington.

Korea DPR lit up the Kiwi capital in the opening game, convincingly defeating Group A winners Denmark 4-0, while Germany closed the curtain on the action at Wellington Stadium with goals of the highest quality in their 3-1 win over Canada.

Group B rivals Korea DPR and Germany never looked in danger of losing out in their last eight duels and will now wait on the two matches played in Hamilton tomorrow to determine their semi final opponents. Korea DPR will face the winner of the Japan and England clash, while Germany will face either USA or the Korea Republic.

Dzsenifer Marozsan scored a classy double for Germany to take the 16-year-old two clear at the top of the New Zealand 2008 scoring charts, but the talented youngster brings so much more to the German side than merely goals.

Marozsan's opening strike in this match after three minutes exemplified the range of her talents, with some delightful footwork in the build-up preceding a powerful and precise finish beyond the helpless Genevieve Richard.

Canada were their own worst enemies for Germany's second, slotted home by Lynn Mester after Alexandra Popp had struck the post, but they showed commendable resolve to halve the deficit before half-time through the athletic Nkem Ezurike.

The European champions remained in complete control throughout, however, and the moment of inspiration they required to make sure of victory came, predictably, from their No10, again combining skill, power and accuracy to put the game beyond Canada's reach.

After a mixed opening to New Zealand – 2008, Korea DPR finally unleashed their awesome potential with a demolition of Denmark’s defense with four strikes of the highest quality.

Jon Myong Hwa was the architect for the Asian Champions, scoring an opportunistic goal to open the scoring before extending the North Koreans' lead with a superbly struck second.

With Denmark toothless in attack, Ri Un Ham's side were well worthy of the four-goal winning margin established by a coolly-converted third from Ri Un Ae and a fourth from Kim Un Ju that very nearly burst the net.

For Korea DPR, who shocked everyone by winning the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup two years ago, the win maintains their impressive unbeaten record in FIFA women's youth competitions.

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup New Zealand 2008 Quarterfinals
November 9, Hamilton
Waikato Stadium

Japan v England, 13H00
Korea Republic v USA, 16H00

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008 - Quarterfinals

Germany (2) 3 (10. Dzsenifer MAROZSAN 4’, 78’; 8. Lynn MESTER 34’;)
Canada (1) 1 (12. Nkem EZURIKE 44’;)

Westpac Stadium
Wellington
New Zealand
Saturday 8 November 2008
Kick-off: 16h00

CAN: 21. Genevieve RICHARD [gk]; 3. Bryanna McCARTHY ©; 6. Shelina ZADORSKY (5. Alyscha MOTTERSHEAD 67’), 8. Caroline SZWED; 10. Tiffany CAMERON, 11. Karli HEDLUND, 12. Nkem EZURIKE (15. Julia IGNACIO 63’); 13. Danica WU (9. Amy HARRISON 79’), 14. Rachel LEMARRE, 16. Alexandra SMITH, 20. Lauren GRANBERG.

Substitutes Not Used:1. Cynthia LEBLANC [rgk], 2. Kayla AFONSO, 4. Marialye LARAMEE-TORTTIER,7. Annick MALTAIS; 17. Nicole MITCHELL, 18. Sabrina D’ANGELO [rgk]. 19. Diamond SIMPSON;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None.

Coach:  Bryan ROSENFELD (CAN)

GER: 1. Anna SARHOLZ [gk]; 3. Inka WESLEY, 4. Valeria KLEINER ©, 5. Carolin SIMON, 6. Marie-Louise BAGEHORN, 7. Turid KNAAK (17. Isabelle LINDEN 86’); 8. Lynn MESTER; 9. Tabea KEMME (15. Hasret  KAYICKI 84’); 10. Dzsenifer MAROZSAN  11. Alexandra POPP (18. Svenja HUTH 89’); 20. Leonie MAIER;

Substitutes Not Used: 2. Angelina LUEBCKE; 12. Almuth SCHULT [rgk]; 13. Julia DEBITSKI; 21. Lisa SCHMITZ [rgk]; Nicole ROSLER,16. ROLSER; 19. Claudia GOTTE, 14. Ivana RUDELIC;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None

Coach: Ralf PETER (GER)

Referee: Silvia REYES (PER)
Assistant Referee 1: RIBIERO Cleidy Mary (BRA)
Assistant Referee 2: Maria BARBOSA (BRA)
Fourth Official: CHA Sung Mi (KOR)

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008
 
Denmark (0) 0
Korea DPR (1) 4 (10. JON Myong Hwa 21’, 73’; RI Un Ae 86’; KIM Un Ju 89’;)

Wellington Stadium
Wellington
New Zealand
Saturday 8 November 2008
Kick-off: 13H00
Attendance: NA

DEN: 1. lene GISSEL [gk]; 2. Line OSTERGAARD, 3. Line SUGVARDSEN JENSEN ©, 5. Simone BOYE (14. Larke LILLELUND MICHAELSON 62’); 6. Louise BRIX (4. Pernille RAMLOV 90’); 7. Sofie JUNGE, 8. Katrine VEJE, 9. Britta OLSEN, 10. Amanda HOHOL;12. Pernille HARDER, 13. Linette ANDREASEN (17. Anne THIRUP RUDMOSE 81’);

Substitutes Not Used:, 11. Liv HAVGAARD NYHEGN, 16. Esther DAM SIMONSEN [rgk], 20. Nina FRAUSING PEDERSEN, 21. Tanja INGEMAN [rgk].,18. Michelle MADSEN; 19. Camilla CHRISTENSEN;

Yellow cards: None.

Red cards: None.

Coach:  Bryan ERIKSEN(DEN)

PRK: 1. HONG Myong Hui [gk]; 2. Un Hui HON, 3. Hong Yon JON, 5. Sol Hui KIM, 6. UJ KIM (15. Un Ae RI 76’) 8. Yon Hui PAE © (7. Un Ju KIM 81’), 9. Un Byol HO, 10. Myong Hwa JON;11. Hyon Hi YUN (19. Hyon Sun JANG 51’); 12. Hyon Mi KIM, 18. Un Hyang KIM;

Substitutes Not Used: 4. Un Jong RYU, 13. Myong Hui JO;20. Hyang Hui RI [rgk], 21. Su Jong KIM [rgk]; 14. Chol Ok RO; 16. Ok CHA;17. Yu Ri JONG; 20. Hyang Hui RA; 21. Su Jong KIM;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None.

Coach: Ui Ham RI (PRK)

Referee: Thalia MITSI (GRE)

Assistant Referee 1: Judit ROMANO (ESP)

Assistant Referee 2: Maria LISICKA (SVK)

Fourth Official: Natalia AVDONCHENKO (RUS)

WELLINGTON - Canada’s semi-final dreams are over after a double from the outstanding Dzsenifer Marozsan helped Germany to a convincing 3-1 win at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Wellington today.

The 16-year-old German No10 has established herself as one of the stars of this tournament and she continued her side's habit of striking early with a superb third-minute opener.

Picking up the ball at the edge of the area, Marozsan showed some delightful footwork to shift the ball into space before rifling a right-foot shot beyond the helpless Genevieve Richard.

Canada now had a mountain to climb, and that ascent became all the more unlikely when some dreadful defending allowed Lynn Mester to sneak in to convert the rebound after Alexandra Popp had a left-foot shot against the face of the post.

For many it seemed the match was over following Germanys second goal but the Canucks showed their mettle by hauling themselves back into contention as half-time approached, Nkem Ezurike poking home from close range after Tiffany Cameron had knocked the ball back across goal.

The Germans dominated the second half, controlling possession for long spells and creating a host of good chances for Popp, Marozsan and Kemme who all went close.

Canada goalkeeper Genevieve Richard was on top form to keep the game within reach for Canada and will be remembered at NZ 2008 as one of the tournament’s top keepers.

Canada always looked dangerous on the break through the speed and strength of Rachel Lemarre and she carved out some half chances but found it difficult to find support in her attacks.

Popp – regarded as having the best aerial ability at the tournament by many – struck the post with a glancing header from a well executed cross in the 60th minute and Canada clung on to hope of forcing the game to extra time.

However that hope evaporated when Marozsan showed yet more superb close control to create the space she needed to rifle home the goal that sent Ralf Peter's side on to the last four.

It was the strikers sixth goal of the tournament and she has reinforced her billing as the most lethal attacking weapon at NZ 2008.

Canada nearly scored a consolation goal in the last minute when the energetic substitute Julia Ignacio rifled a shot off the cross bar only for the rebound to bounce to safety.

In the Semi Finals Germany will meet the winner of the match between USA and Korea played tomorrow in Hamilton.

Germany coach Ralf Peter was happy with his sides good start.

"If we score early in our matches it's because the players are mentally strong, but there's also an element of luck.

"We didn't panic when they reduced the deficit to 2-1 and we dominated the second half. It's a deserved victory but by no means an easy one. "

Canada coach Bryan Rosenfeld was full of praise for the German side.

"It's a shame to have conceded a goal so early on. The Germans are a class above and play fast and accurate football.

"We reacted by cutting their lead before the interval but the third goal killed us off. We've achieved our objective, which was to make it through the first phase, and we did so while giving a good account of Canadian football.

"We play fair and we always give it our all."

Photos courtesy of FIFA Media/ Foto-Net

GOAL - The Germans celebrate their opening goal after three minutes

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008
 
Germany(2) 3 (10. Dzsenifer MAROZSAN 4’, 78’; 8. Lynn MESTER 34’;)
Canada (1) 1 ( 12. Nkem EZURIKE 44’;)

Westpac Stadium
Wellington
New Zealand
Saturday 8 November 2008
Kick-off: 16h00

CAN: 21. Genevieve RICHARD [gk]; 3. Bryanna McCARTHY ©; 6. Shelina ZADORSKY (5. Alyscha MOTTERSHEAD 67’), 8. Caroline SZWED; 10. Tiffany CAMERON, 11. Karli HEDLUND, 12. Nkem EZURIKE (15. Julia IGNACIO 63’); 13. Danica WU (9. Amy HARRISON 79’), 14. Rachel LEMARRE, 16. Alexandra SMITH, 20. Lauren GRANBERG.

Substitutes Not Used:1. Cynthia LEBLANC [rgk], 2. Kayla AFONSO, 4. Marialye LARAMEE-TORTTIER,; 7. Annick MALTAIS; 17. Nicole MITCHELL, 18. Sabrina D’ANGELO [rgk]. 19. Diamond SIMPSON;;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None.

Coach:  Bryan ROSENFELD (CAN)

GER: 1. Anna SARHOLZ [gk]; 3. Inka WESLEY, 4. Valeria KLEINER ©, 5. Carolin SIMON, 6. Marie-Louise BAGEHORN, 7. Turid KNAAK (17. Isabelle LINDEN 86’); 8. Lynn MESTER; 9. Tabea KEMME (15. Hasret  KAYICKI 84’); 10. Dzsenifer MAROZSAN  11. Alexandra POPP (18. Svenja HUTH 89’); 20. Leonie MAIER;

Substitutes Not Used: 2. Angelina LUEBCKE; 12. Almuth SCHULT [rgk]; 13. Julia DEBITSKI; 21. Lisa SCHMITZ [rgk; Nicole ROSLER,16. ROLSER; 19. Claudia GOTTE, 14. Ivana RUDELIC;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None

Coach: Ralf PETER (GER)

Referee: Silvia REYES (PER)

Assistant Referee 1: RIBIERO Cleidy Mary (BRA)

Assistant Referee 2: Maria BARBOSA (BRA)

Fourth Official: CHA Sung Mi (KOR)

WELLINGTON - Korea DPR have seized the first of the semi-final slots at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008, with a resounding 4-0 quarter-final win over Denmark in Wellington.

It was a comprehensive victory and almost seemed inevitable from the opening whistle with the North Koreans dominating all areas of the match.

Jon Myong Hwa was the star of the show against the outclassed Group A winners, scoring two goals and playing a role in two others as the North Koreans cruised through to the last four.

Jon's first came midway through a first half of few chances and was a real poacher’s goal. Un Hui Yon fired a long range effort at goal from 40 yards out and Jon was first to react when the keeper spilled the ball, and cooly stuck it in the net.

It was testament to Denmark’s determination and drive that they were still in the match after half time and though they worked hard, they never threatened the Korean goal.

With Denmark impotent in attack, Korea DPR rarely looked in danger, and with 17 minutes remaining Jon grabbed a stunning second, drifting in from the left and, with the ball bobbling in front of her, smashing a right-foot shot just inside the far post from 25 yards.

Ri Un Ham's side were in cruise control now, and four minutes from the end they removed any lingering doubts when substitute Ri Un Ae coolly slotted home the clincher after a frantic penalty box scramble.

And there was still time for icing to be applied to the cake, with goalscorers Ri and Jon combining to tee up Kim Un Ju for a fantastic fourth, sent searing into the top right-hand corner from 20 yards.

It was Koreas best performance of the tournament and Coach Ui Ham Ri will be delighted with his sides form heading into the semi finals.

They will meet the winner of Japan v England which will be played tomorrow in Hamilton.

Korea DPR player Jon Myong Hwa was full of pride after the win.

"There are no words to describe how we feel after this victory. I'm pleased to have scored two goals and helped my team reach the next round.

"Once you reach this stage, you focus on the semi-final first and foremost, but you can't help your thoughts already turning to winning the world title."

Danish coach Bent Eriksen was full of praise for the talented Korean outfit.

"We knew what to expect and weren't surprised by the quality of their team. It wasn't that we performed badly; I just think that, in contrast to the Koreans, we made a few individual errors and they made the most of them.

"On the flip side, they barely made a single mistake, so it was difficult to score against them."

Photos courtesy of FIFA Media/ Foto-Net

GOAL: Myong Hwa JON opens the scoring for Korea

The Danish fans were in full voice in Wellington

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup – New Zealand 2008
 
Denmark (0) 0
Korea DPR (1) 4 (10. JON Myong Hwa 21’, 73’; RI Un Ae 86’; KIM Un Ju 89’;)
Wellington Stadium
Wellington
New Zealand
Saturday 8 November 2008
Kick-off: 13H00

DEN: 1. lene GISSEL [gk]; 2. Line OSTERGAARD, 3. Line SUGVARDSEN JENSEN ©, 5. Simone BOYE (14. Larke LILLELUND MICHAELSON 62’); 6. Louise BRIX (4. Pernille RAMLOV 90’); 7. Sofie JUNGE, 8. Katrine VEJE, 9. Britta OLSEN, 10. Amanda HOHOL;12. Pernille HARDER, 13. Linette ANDREASEN (17. Anne THIRUP RUDMOSE 81’);

Substitutes Not Used:, 11. Liv HAVGAARD NYHEGN, 16. Esther DAM SIMONSEN [rgk], 20. Nina FRAUSING PEDERSEN, 21. Tanja INGEMAN [rgk].,18. Michelle MADSEN; 19. Camilla CHRISTENSEN;

Yellow cards: None.

Red cards: None.

Coach:  Bryan ERIKSEN(DEN)

PRK: 1. HONG Myong Hui [gk]; 2. Un Hui HON, 3. Hong Yon JON, 5. Sol Hui KIM, 6. UJ KIM (15. Un Ae RI 76’) 8. Yon Hui PAE © (7. Un Ju KIM 81’), 9. Un Byol HO, 10. Myong Hwa JON;11. Hyon Hi YUN (19. Hyon Sun JANG 51’); 12. Hyon Mi KIM, 18. Un Hyang KIM;

Substitutes Not Used: 4. Un Jong RYU, 13. Myong Hui JO;20. Hyang Hui RI [rgk], 21. Su Jong KIM [rgk]; 14. Chol Ok RO; 16. Ok CHA;17. Yu Ri JONG; 20. Hyang Hui RA; 21. Su Jong KIM;

Yellow cards: None

Red cards: None.

Coach: Ui Ham RI (PRK)

Referee: Thalia MITSI (GRE)

Assistant Referee 1: Judit ROMANO (ESP)

Assistant Referee 2: Maria LISICKA (SVK)

Fourth Official: Natalia AVDONCHENKO (RUS)

Every FIFA tournament has its surprises and, for Germany, their first here in New Zealand came off the field.

"Sensational" and "absolutely amazing" were just two of the adjectives used by the European champions to describe an unexpected whale-watching trip in Kaikoura that brought the squad up close and personal with the ocean's most majestic inhabitants.

On the pitch, shocks have been in less plentiful supply as the Germans, living up to their pre-tournament billing, coasted through to the quarter-finals. Yet if there was a solitary surprise in their group campaign, it was that not one of the eight goals in their opening two matches came from the usually prolific Alexandra Popp.

The Duisburg striker had, after all, scored no fewer than 11 times during the UEFA preliminaries to finish as the tournament's top markswoman, and touched down in New Zealand fully expected to spearhead the German charge.

As it was, it took until her side's third match for normal service to be resumed, although the clinical, instinctive manner in which Popp dispatched her duck-breaking strike reminded everyone of why she arrived so highly rated.

The question now: will it prove the first of many? Popp, a confident, self-assured character, seems in little doubt. "That was just the start," she said.

"But it was a good start! I was really disappointed not to score in my first two matches, that's why I was so happy to finally get off the mark against North Korea. And now that I've broken my duck, I'm sure more goals will follow."

Canada, Germany's forthcoming opponents, certainly seem wary of a player singled out by the Canucks' midfielder Shelina Zadorsky as "very, very skilled" ahead of Saturday's quarter-final in Wellington.

The North Americans, for their part, performed well in qualifying ahead of the hosts and Colombia from Group A, although it is clear that Popp believes their campaign will end in the last eight. "I'm confident that this will not be our last match at these finals," was her candid prediction.

While self-belief is clearly coursing through German veins, with coach Ralph Peter declaring his side "have the ability to beat any opponent at this tournament," such confidence should not be mistake for arrogance or complacency.

Indeed, despite qualifying from Group A unbeaten and with a game to spare, Peter's side have proved to be their own harshest critics at New Zealand 2008.

"This team can definitely play better than it has so far," insisted Popp. "The level of performance hasn't been what I expected. But I'm confident that in the quarter-finals we will start showing what we're capable of."

This knowledge that they have only displayed a fraction of their potential during the group matches has also encouraged Peter to believe that a place in the last four should be attainable. He said: "I'm happy because we're through and also happy because I know that my team can improve. We definitely have more potential than we have shown here."

No-one, least of all themselves, doubts the European champions will be strong contenders for this inaugural title. But who do the Germans see as their principal rivals for the crown?

"Japan have impressed me," said Popp. "I'm surprised how strong they are because I saw their national team play ours and they didn't look so good. I also think that although the US lost to Japan, they must still be in the circle of favourites."

If their star striker can return to her free-scoring best, do not bet against Germany remaining at the centre of that particular circle.

Story courtesy of FIFA Media - for more visit www.fifa.com