Germany’s hopes of progressing end with a 1-1 draw in their final group match, as South Korea hold firm in a dramatic encounter.

Germany were knocked out of the World Cup after securing only a 1-1 draw against South Korea in their final group-stage match on Thursday. Despite a second-half equalizer from Alexandra Popp, the draw was not enough to keep Germany’s tournament hopes alive, as they failed to advance past the group stage.

The match saw South Korea take the lead early with a goal from Cho So-Hyun in the 6th minute. Germany responded just before halftime when Popp equalized in the 42nd minute, heading home a pinpoint cross from Svenja Huth.

Germany dominated possession but struggled to break down a resilient South Korean defense, with Germany’s attempts falling short of creating clear scoring chances. Meanwhile, South Korea’s attack remained dangerous throughout, with Germany’s goalkeeper Merle Frohms forced into several crucial saves.

Despite an energetic second-half push, Germany were unable to find a winner, and with the draw, they ended their World Cup campaign in the group stage, marking a disappointing exit for the former champions. South Korea, though eliminated as well, were able to finish the group stage with a strong performance against the highly ranked Germans.