Vangsgaard's last-minute header gives Denmark victory against China
Amalie Vangsgaard of Denmark speaks to the media in the post match press conference Credit: Aitor Alcalde - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Substitute striker Amalie Vangsgaard emerged as Denmark's hero in their opening FIFA Women’s World Cup game, netting a dramatic last-minute goal to secure a 1-0 victory over China at the Perth Rectangular Stadium.
In a match lacking clear scoring opportunities, the result seemed destined for a draw until Vangsgaard, who had entered the game just minutes prior, broke the deadlock with a looping header that bounced into the goal.
China had appeared more confident with ball possession throughout the match, and dominated the opening period.
Zhang Linyan delivered the only on-target shot of the first half, her low left-footed effort comfortably saved by Danish goalkeeper Lene Christensen.
Linyan was replaced by Wang Shuan at half-time, who quickly made her presence known by launching a long-range shot, again stopped by Christensen.
Denmark's first real chance came soon after, when Josefine Hasbo sent a header over the crossbar following a miscommunication between Chinese defenders Xu Huan and Zhang Xin.
As the game progressed, Denmark increased their pressure, with Pernille Harder being denied a scoring opportunity by a fantastic defensive header from China's Chen Qiaozhu.
A potential own goal from China's Wang Shanshan almost gifted Denmark the lead, but Simone Boye couldn't capitalize on the errant clearance.
It wasn't until Vangsgaard's clutch intervention in the dying minutes of the game that the deadlock was broken, granting Denmark a triumphant start to their World Cup campaign.
"I've waited a long time for the first international goal, so I must have saved it for the best time," said a jubilant Vangsgaard after the match. "It's super important that we got off to a good start to the World Cup."
Denmark Women: Lene Christensen; Stine Ballisager, Simone Boye Sorensen, Rikke Sevecke, Katrine Veje; Josefine Hasbo, Karen Holmgaard, Katherine Kuhl (Signe Bruun 62); Pernille Harder, Nicoline Sorensen (Rikke Madsen 72), Janni Thomsen (Amalie Vangsgaard 85).
Subs not used: Maja Bay, Kathrine Larsen, Frederikke Thogersen, Sofie Svava, Sara Thrige, Emma Snerle, Mille Gejl, Sanne Troelsgaard, Luna Gevitz.
Booked: Rikke Sevecke (40).
China PR Women: Xu Huan; Wu Chengshu (Gu Yasha 90), Li Mengwen (Gao Chen 85), Chen Qiaozhu, Yao Wei; Yang Lina, Zhang Linyan, Zhang Rui, Zhang Xin (Wang Shuang 46); Lou Jiahui (Shen Mengyu 78), Wang Shanshan.
Subs not used: Zhu Yu, Pan Hongyan, Dou Jiaxing, Wu Haiyan, Wang Linlin, Tang Jiali, Yao Lingwei, Xiao Yuyi.
Booked: None.
Referee: Marie-Soleil Beaudoin.
Attendance: 16,989
