The Germany women’s side started the SheBelievesCup in the USA with a win after a late Leonie Maier goal. The full back scored in the 83rd minute against France to clinch a 1-0 victory.
"We are pleased with the result, we tried something new out and it worked well, but we know that we still have a lot of work to do," said national coach Silvia Neid following the match. "It was a good start to the tournament." Their result was matched by hosts USA, who defeated England 1-0 after a goal from Crystal Dunn.
Debut for Doorsoun-Khajeh
Almuth Schult started in goal for Germany in the Raymond James Stadium, with the back four in front of her consisting of Annike Krahn, Saskia Bartusiak, Maier, and debutant Sara Doorsoun-Khajeh. The double defensive midfield partnership was made up of Lena Goeßling and Melanie Behringer, with Dzsenifer Marozsán, Sara Däbritz, Isabel Kerschowski and Anja Mittag given attacking duties.
The French women started the better of the two teams, but were not able to find a way through the organised German defence. With 15 minutes played, Germany began to properly find their feet in the game, and had their first chance through Däbritz - her shot blocked well.
In the 38th minute, France’s goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi was called upon once again, saving Marozsan’s long-range effort. France had a couple of opportunities as the half progressed, but due to the high level of defending on display at both ends, the teams went in at the break at 0-0.
Schult hits the post, Maier takes advantage
The German side started the second half with more urgency in their play, testing the France defence in the 51st minute through Marozsan’s effort. The game looked set to end a stalemate, but Germany had other ideas. From a corner, Anna Blässe’s effort was blocked but fell kindly to Leonie Maier, who smashed home for what turned out to be the winning goal.
