Colombia’s 89th-minute defeat was simply a prelude to an even later twist, when defender Manuela Vanegas headed in a winner in the seventh minute of stoppage time. Colombian players erupt in loud celebrations, as German teammates stare in disbelief. Caicedo and her teammates have undoubtedly had an eventful season.
The Real Madrid player, 18, had a health scare earlier this week when she collapsed on the ground while grabbing her chest during a practise session. It was weariness, according to team officials, and she certainly appeared to be in full flight for her magnificent second-half strike.
Caicedo, a cancer survivor, had already scored from long range in Tuesday’s 2-0 win over South Korea. But, unlike the last goal, which was the result of a mistake by custodian Yoon Young-geul, this time it was all about individual skill.
After collecting the ball well inside the area from a corner, she manoeuvred her way into space by befuddling two German players in a quick-stepping move before blasting a shot into the top corner. Caicedo sprinted towards the corner, followed by her teammates, to get closer to the ecstatic fans.
“Linda Caicedo is an outstanding player.” “We knew it before the World Cup” said Germany coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg. “We have to pay close attention.
“It was an excellent goal. That is something I must admit. But we can and should do better. We should keep playing.”
Germany is unlikely to be the last team to get the Caicedo treatment in her World Cup debut, if she stays fit.
Caicedo required medical attention behind the scenes in the 84th minute, just days after complaining of weariness at practise. She fell to the ground and was checked by trainers while she lay face down on the pitch, as the referee stood nearby. She stood up and began walking to the bench, but after signalling that she was fine, she returned to the pitch and completed the game.
Marsiglia later attempted to assuage fears, claiming that the youngster had been weary but that there had been a “bit of acceleration” in her heart.
While Caicedo has been her country’s inspiration throughout the competition, Vanegas’ late strike showcased the team’s diverse talent.
She rose to head in substitute Leicy Santos’ corner deep into additional time, propelling Colombia to the top of the group.
“This was a decisive match to qualify for the next round,” Marsiglia stated. “This is a fantastic victory for the entire country, but the game and tournament are still ongoing.”
Germany must now regroup after coming within a whisker of saving a point after Colombia goalkeeper Catalina Perez was penalised for taking down Lena Oberdorf in the box.
Germany had never failed to advance from the World Cup group stage, and this was the country’s first defeat in a group game since 1995.
It is still expected to win South Korea in its final Group H game, but will most likely have to settle for second place, which might set up a round of 16 showdown against France.
The runners-up from last year’s Euros should have been ahead in the first half when Popp missed the target with a close-range volley shortly before halftime.
Lina Magull had an earlier chance to test Perez from close range, but she miskicked and the opportunity was squandered.