Morocco have reached the last 16 on their Women’s World Cup debut after beating Colombia – although the South Americans progress as Group H winners.
Germany’s failure to beat South Korea means Morocco are into the knockout rounds as runners-up.
Of the eight debutants at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, seven had already exited the tournament before this match.
Two-time champions Germany were sent crashing out of the Women’s World Cup group stages in the biggest shock of the tournament thanks to a draw with South Korea.
It is the first time in Germany’s history they have failed to reach the knockout stages.
Only Philippines, by beating co-hosts New Zealand, and Portugal in giving the USA a mighty scare, had come close to reaching the knockout stage.
Step forward Morocco. Reynaud Pedros’ side have recovered from their World Cup debut hammering to put in two impressive performances against South Korea and Colombia, and earn historic passage to the last 16.
Anissa Lahmari scored the only goal via a rebound after captain Ghizlane Chebbak’s penalty was saved.
Morocco – who lost 6-0 to the Germans in their opener before successive wins – will face France in Adelaide next.
Colombia, who earned two wins in their first two matches and finish above Morocco on goal difference, will play Jamaica in Melbourne earlier on 8 August.
