In 20 previous meetings with Germany, the England women’s squad had never emerged victorious. But the 21st time was apparently the charm, as England ran out 1-0 winners in extra time in the third place match of the Women’s World Cup on SAT 04 JUL 2015. Fara WILLIAMS scored the decisive goal from the penalty spot. More than 21,000 were in attendance in Edmonton.

England nearly fell behind eight minutes in. A goalmouth scramble saw both Jo POTTER and her goalkeeper, Karen BARDSLEY, going for a header by Bianca SCHMIDT. Potter inadvertently deflected the ball toward goal, but captain Steph HOUGHTON reacted quickly and cleared the ball off the line.

Germany had more attacking opportunities in the 90 minutes, but Bardsley and her organised defense kept the match goalless into extra time. In the 108th minute, Lioness substitute Lianne SANDERSON had a promising opportunity, only to be tugged down by Tabea KEMME. Referee RI Hyang Ok pointed to the spot immediately. Williams made the penalty look easy, sending German keeper Nadine ANGERER diving the wrong way and burying it in the opposite corner.

Germany pressed forward looking to equalise but were stymied, most notably on a header by Schmidt that was just wide of the post. In the end, England held on for the victory, capping their best ever tournament. Germany end the competition goalless in two consecutive matches, something that has never before happened to them at the Women’s World Cup.