Like FC Bayern once did…: DFB juniors fail dramatically at the World Cup

Like FC Bayern once did…
DFB youth team fails dramatically at the World Cup

16.09.2024, 09:25

What a drama: The German U20 women's soccer team failed in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, despite being two goals ahead deep into injury time. Three German players then failed in the penalty shootout.

Bitter memories of the injury time drama that once dragged FC Bayern Munich into the valley of tears: The German U20 women's football team failed in dramatic fashion at the World Cup in Colombia. Head coach Kathrin Peter's team was leading 2-0 until injury time in the quarter-final against the USA, but then conceded two very late goals – and ultimately lost 1-3 on penalties. After extra time in Cali, the score was 2-2 (2-2, 0-0). In 1999, FC Bayern lost the Champions League victory against Manchester United in a similarly bitter way.

“I just feel empty right now,” said Tomke Schneider of Eintracht Frankfurt: “We have to go home first, then at some point we'll realise that the dream is over. We're still a good team and can be proud of ourselves.”

After goals from Cora Zicai (61st) and Loreen Bender (90th+2), the semi-finals seemed certain, but a double strike from Jordynn Dudley (90th+8) and Allyson Sentnor (90th+9) in the seemingly endless stoppage time forced extra time. Jella Veit converted the first German shot from the penalty spot, but three failed attempts followed: Paulina Platner missed, Vanessa Diehm hit the post, and Alara Sehitler was stopped by US goalkeeper Teagan Wy.

“It's all very bitter, the USA were the luckier team,” said coach Peter. The World Cup final will take place on September 22nd in the Colombian capital Bogota. Before that, the German team beat Argentina 5-1 in the round of 16, while the USA fought their way into the quarterfinals with a 3-2 win after extra time against Mexico.