Morocco have defeated Korea Republic 1-0 to secure their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup victory.
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Ibtissam Jraidi scores Morocco’s first goal at FIFA Women’s World Cup
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Morocco become the third debutantes to win a game at these global finals
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If Germany avoid defeat against Colombia, Korea Republic will be eliminated
Korea Republic 0-1 Morocco | Group H
Goalscorer: Ibtissam Jraidi (6′)
Morocco pulled off a remarkable upset to defeat Korea Republic 1-0 in Adelaide. The world No72 scored early and held off a team ranked 55 places above them.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup™ debutantes started on the front foot – and their early pressure soon told. Salma Amani’s cross was met with a fine diving header from Ibtissam Jraidi, who directed her effort beyond Korea goalkeeper Kim Jungmi for the nation’s first-ever goal at the global finals.
Both teams continued to have chances in an open first half but neither could convert. Despite Korea Republic’s dominance in possession, their first shot on target did not come until after the break.
The second half was the story of the Taegeuk Ladies desperately trying to get themselves back into the game. Sixteen-year-old substitute Casey Phair had the best opportunity of the half when the ball fell to her feet near the penalty spot, but her shot fizzed just wide.
Morocco held on – and the full-time whistle brought joy for the underdogs and heartbreak for Korea Republic. If Germany avoid defeat against Colombia tonight, Korea will be eliminated from Australia & New Zealand 2023.
Key stat
Korea Republic goalkeeper Kim Jungmi (38y 287d) becomes the oldest player to play a FIFA Women’s World Cup match for an AFC nation
VISA Player of the match
Ibtissam Jraidi (Morocco)
Quotes
“The reality is we were not good enough in both games. Why that was, we have to analyse in detail. I’m not going to let my emotions take over now, and obviously we’re all very disappointed. The players are much better than they’ve shown in both matches and it really is almost unbelievable that we’ve performed like we have.” Collin Bell, Korea Republic coach
“We are just so pleased our efforts have paid off. This victory is for Morocco and Arabs, it’s the fruit of our hard work.” Ibtissam Jraidi, Morocco goalscorer
fifa.com