Full-time: New Zealand U17 Women 0-2 Germany U17 Women

Germany U17 Women opened their FIFA U17 Women's World Cup campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over New Zealand U17 Women on 24 October 2026, using patience in possession and a pair of well-timed goals to see off a disciplined opponent. Lina Krauss gave Germany the lead in the first half before Emma Schmidt doubled the advantage after the break, ensuring the young German side took maximum points from a match they controlled for long spells.

Match overview

Germany settled quickly into their rhythm, circulating the ball through midfield and pushing their full-backs high to stretch New Zealand's back line. New Zealand, as expected, defended in a compact block and looked to spring forward on the counter, but they struggled to keep possession long enough to relieve pressure. The opening goal came from exactly the kind of sustained spell Germany had been building toward, and the second-half strike gave the scoreline a fair reflection of the contest.

Key moments

• 18th minute: Germany's early pressure told when Lina Krauss arrived late in the box and finished calmly after a cut-back from the right.
• 34th minute: New Zealand goalkeeper Isla Morrison produced a strong save to deny Germany a second before half-time.
• 52nd minute: Emma Schmidt doubled Germany's lead with a low drive from the edge of the area after a short corner routine.
• 71st minute: New Zealand's best chance arrived on the break, but the German defence recovered to block the shot.
• 84th minute: Germany managed the closing stages professionally, keeping the ball in wide areas and limiting New Zealand's transitions.

Tactical story

Germany's high press forced New Zealand into frequent long clearances, and their midfield trio did well to win second balls and recycle possession. The Germans also created overloads on the flanks, drawing New Zealand's wing-backs narrow before switching play. New Zealand's low block was organised for long periods, but the difficulty of sustaining that shape against a technically superior side eventually told. Their counter-attacking plan had flashes of promise, particularly after half-time, yet the final pass too often went astray.

Standout players

Krauss was influential beyond her goal, dropping into pockets between the lines and linking Germany's midfield with the front three. Schmidt's energy and direct running gave New Zealand problems throughout, while central defender Sophie Wagner dealt comfortably with the rare balls played into her channel. For New Zealand, Morrison made several important saves to keep the deficit manageable, and captain Amelia Reid worked tirelessly in midfield.

What it means

The result gives Germany an early foothold in the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup group standings and sets up their next fixture with confidence. New Zealand, meanwhile, will need a response in their second match, with their defensive resilience offering a platform to build on if they can add more composure in possession. Germany's ability to win without ever hitting top gear will be particularly encouraging as the tournament progresses.