In the U-20 Women’s World Cup 2012, Germany and Ghana, despite their opposite starts, faced off in a match that turned out to be more balanced than anticipated. Germany, the reigning world champions, had a tough start, losing to China PR, while Ghana faced defeat against the United States, both matches ending 4-0. The encounter between Germany and Ghana was crucial for both teams, with Germany seeking to secure a place in the quarter-finals.
In the first half, Germany had a promising start with Luisa Wensing’s header, but Ghana’s captain, Patricia Mantey, made a remarkable save. Despite Germany’s offensive attempts and a few chances for Ghana, the score remained 0-0 at halftime.
In the second half, Germany intensified their efforts, with players like Leonie Maier, Kathrin Hendrich, and Carolin Simon trying to break the deadlock. However, Ghana’s defense held firm. The breakthrough finally came in the 90+1st minute when Lina Magull scored with a flat foot, securing a 1-0 victory for Germany.
The defeat meant that Ghana’s Black Princesses were eliminated from the competition after two consecutive losses. Their final group stage match against China PR would only serve as an opportunity to salvage some points. On the other hand, Nigeria, the other African representative, was in a better position with four points in two games, needing just one point in the next match against Italy to secure a spot in the quarter-finals.
