The Women’s U20 World Championships in Salvador produced one of the tournament’s most dramatic moments so far, as Italy stunned reigning champions Hungary 9–8 with a goal on the final buzzer.
Beatrice Cassarà was the hero, firing home her third goal of the match just before time expired. It capped a rollercoaster contest in which Hungary led 2–0 early, trailed 8–4 midway through the fourth, fought back to level with just eight seconds remaining – only to be beaten at the death.
It was Hungary’s second one-goal loss in as many days, leaving them bottom of Group B after the opening two rounds.
Group B drama – USA edge Greece in sudden death
Earlier in the day, the United States edged Greece 15–14 in a sudden-death penalty shootout. Greece had led 8–5 late in the third quarter, but USA fought back with a four-goal surge across the final break to go 10–9 ahead. Foteini Tricha equalised for Greece with under two minutes left, forcing the shootout. After both teams converted their first four penalties, sudden death was needed – Rosalie Hassett sealing victory for the Americans.
Elsewhere in Salvador
- Group A: The Netherlands rebounded from their opening defeat to Spain with a dominant 19–5 win over Israel, led by seven goals from Amy Kleinlugtebeld. Spain, meanwhile, beat New Zealand 17–6.
- Group C: Croatia crushed Mexico 19–5, while hosts Brazil claimed their first win, defeating Argentina 16–9.
- Group D: China beat South Africa 16–4, and Australia secured a second win with a 9–4 victory over Canada.
Standings after Day 2
Group A: Spain 3pts, New Zealand 3, Netherlands 3, Israel 0
Group B: USA 5, Greece 4, Italy 3, Hungary 0
Group C: Croatia 6, Brazil 3, Argentina 3, Mexico 0
Group D: China 6, Australia 6, Canada 0, South Africa 0
Day 3 Fixtures (local time)
09:00 – Argentina v Croatia
10:30 – Canada v South Africa
12:00 – China v Australia
13:30 – Netherlands v New Zealand
16:00 – Spain v Israel
17:30 – Mexico v Brazil
19:00 – Hungary v Greece
20:30 – USA v Italy
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