Kolkata: Colombia advanced to the U-20 Women’s World Cup quarter-finals after beating hosts Poland 1-0 in the Round of 16 clash.
A tense, goalless draw seemed destined to continue into extra time as both sides battled for a glimmer of hope. However, in the 89th minute, Colombia’s pressure finally paid off as Martyna Bartczak turned the ball into her own net, sparking celebrations among the Colombian players.
Poland reached the knockout stage as group winners after finishing top of their section, while Colombia suffered a shock 3-0 loss to defending champions North Korea in their last group match. Colombia began their U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over Costa Rica. They then drew 0-0 with Portugal before suffering a 3-0 defeat to North Korea in their final group game. Despite the loss, Colombia advanced to the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.
The own goal in the 89th minute was the match-winner as both teams failed to score during the additional time. Poland threw everything they had at Colombia in the dying minutes, but Colombia held on to register a narrow 1-0 win over Poland and advance to the next round.
The result means Colombia will face Nigeria in the U-20 Women’s World Cup quarter-final on Sunday, September 20. Nigeria booked their spot in the last eight after a 3-0 win over England earlier in the day. Meanwhile, Poland’s dream of hosting the nation’s first ever World Cup tournament came to an end.
