US beat Germany, win women’s U-20 WC title

The United States won the women’s under-20 World Cup on Saturday after Kealia Ohai scored late in the first-half to secure a 1-0 win over defending champion Germany in the final. Crystal Dunn beat a German defender in the area and squared a pass to Ohai, who sent a right-foot shot over German goalkeeper Laura Benkarth in the 44th minute. Germany pressed forward for an equaliser after the break but the Americans defended staunchly to protect the lead. Leonie Maier came close for Germany with a long-range shot in the final minute but US goalkeeper Bryane Heaberlin made a good save. These teams met in the group stage, with Germany winning 3-0 on Aug. 27 in Miyagi. The Americans also won this tournament in 2002 and 2008. Germany won in 2004 and 2010. Earlier on Saturday, Japan beat Nigeria 2-1 in the third-place game. Yoko Tanaka and Asuka Nishikawa scored for Japan and Desire Oparanozie had Nigeria’s goal.