Prinz makes Germany proud

By Mark Bennett

Germany 3-1 Canada
Birgit Prinz equalled Heidi Mohr's record of 83 goals for Germany as the European champions claimed a friendly win in Osnabrück.

Great header
Prinz struck the record-equalling goal on 79 minutes with a great diving header to give her side a 2-1 lead. Earlier Amber Allen had given the visitors the advantage but Sonja Fuss equalised on the stroke of half-time. After going in front, Germany looked at ease and Inka Grings secured victory five minutes from time.

Early threat
Germany went into the match fielding a 4-4-2 formation whereas the visitors looked to an attacking 4-3-3 lineup. The Canadians' courageous approach almost paid off on seven minutes when Christine Sinclair saw her header turned around the post by Silke Rottenberg.

Rare slip
Seven minutes later Canada cashed in on a rare mistake from the German defence. The world and European title-holders failed to deal with a free-kick and Allen gave the guests the lead and hope of avoiding defeat for the first time in five meetings with Germany.

Germany level
Germany looked slightly shaken by the goal but they still managed to conjure an equaliser. Canada goalkeeper Taryn Swiatek let Fuss's low cross slip under her body and the ball found its way into the back of the net.

Prinz strikes
After the break Germany created a string of good chances but Conny Pohlers, Renate Lingor, Kerstin Garefrekes and Anja Mittag all failed to beat Swiatek. However, eleven minutes from the end Prinz launched herself at Lingor's cross to finally give Germany the advantage and match Mohr's goalscoring mark.

Grings converts
Six minutes later the FIFA Women's World Player of the Year proved she is much more than a terrific finisher. Her delicate chip fell right at Grings's feet and the FCR Duisburg player made no mistake in sealing victory. Germany will face Canada again on Sunday in their final friendly before UEFA WOMEN'S EURO 2005™, where their campaign opens against Group B rivals Norway in Warrington on 6 June.