Germany exit Women's World Cup as Morocco, Colombia progress

Twice former winners Germany crashed out in the opening phase of the Women's World Cup for the first time after a 1-1 draw with South Korea in their final Group H match on Thursday.

The Koreans took a surprise early lead when Cho So-hyun netted in the sixth minute. Alexandra Popp equalised with a trademark header three minutes before the interval, but Germany were unable to find the winner needed to advance.

The Germans, champions in 2003 and 2007 and ranked second in the world, had needed a win to be sure of progressing.

Meanwhile, debutants Morocco's 1-0 win over Colombia in the other group match in Perth sent both teams through to the last 16.

The 72nd ranked Moroccans scored through Anissa Lahmari's toepoke after a saved penalty at the end of the first half but their passage was only secured after South Korea's win over Germany.

Colombia topped the group with six points, bettering runners-up Morocco on goal difference, while Germany and South Korea depart the tournament.