Germany secured their spot in the knockout phase of the Indonesia 2023™ FIFA U-17 World Cup by defeating New Zealand 3-1 in Bandung.
The match in Group F saw goals from Paris Brunner (45+7), Max Moerstedt (60), and Bilal Yalcinkaya (81), along with a late penalty from Adam Watson (90+1) for New Zealand.
Player of the Match honors went to Noah Darvich of Germany.
Germany’s path to victory faced early challenges as Noah Darvich, the team captain, hit the post with a fine free-kick just after the half-hour mark.
Despite Brunner’s header hitting the underside of the crossbar, Germany’s persistence paid off in stoppage time. Paris Brunner, Max Moerstedt, and Bilal Yalcinkaya’s goals secured Germany’s place in the knockout phase of the tournament.
The first goal saw Brunner hitting the woodwork twice before finally converting a rebound via the underside of the bar. Germany continued their dominance with Moerstedt tapping home the second goal after Darvich’s precise pass.
Although Moerstedt’s header hit the crossbar, Yalcinkaya capitalized on the rebound, replicating the earlier success of Brunner.
New Zealand managed to get on the scoreboard with a late penalty from Adam Watson, converting after Almugera Kabar fouled Nathan Walker inside the box.
Germany’s convincing performance, highlighted by outstanding plays and teamwork, ensures their advancement in the tournament as they now set their sights on the upcoming knockout matches in the FIFA U-17 World Cup Indonesia 2023™.
READ MORE: South American Powerhouses Seek Redemption in U-17 Showdown
