Russia savour dramatic success

A last-gasp goal from substitute Svetlana Akimova gave hosts Russia a dramatic 3-2 victory against New Zealand in FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup Group A while Finland fell to their second tournament defeat against Canada.

Russian relief
Russia, who drew 0-0 with Brazil on Thursday, took only five minutes to go ahead in St. Petersburg through Anna Kozhnikova and nine minutes later Elena Terekhova made it two with a superb curling effort. However, Abby Erceg swiftly pulled one back for New Zealand, beaten by Australia in their opener, and Emma Humphries equalised early in the second half. It seemed Russia would have to settle for a point but with five minutes left Akimova was brought on and in added time she headed in Elena Danilova's cross after superb work on the wing from the striker. Brazil's 2-0 victory against Australia leaves Russia second on goal difference, but the home team need only draw with the Young Matildas on Wednesday to reach the quarter-finals. New Zealand, who play Brazil, cannot go through.

Chinese win needed
Having lost 2-0 to China on Thursday, Finland needed to get back on track against 2002 runners-up Canada, but were outplayed by a team themselves recovering from an opening to Nigeria. Jodi-Ann Robinson broke the deadlock for Canada in the 39th minute from the penalty spot and she clinched the win 20 minutes from time with her second goal of the match. As China beat Nigeria 3-0 in the later game, Finland can still go through on goal difference if they overcome the African champions and China defeat Canada.

Monday matches
On Monday holders Germany and European rivals Switzerland will both look to get off the mark in Group C. Germany take on Mexico, who overcame the Swiss on Friday, while Claudio Taddei's team play Korea DPR, surprise winners against the champions. France play Congo DR aiming to build on their 5-0 defeat of Argentina while also in Group D the South Americans meet the United States.