AFP, VANCOUVER: Wang Lisi's late winner got China's Women's World Cup campaign back on track Thursday as Germany were held 1-1 by Norway and Canada played a goalless draw against New Zealand. China's Group A tie in Edmonton's Commonwealth Stadium looked to be heading for frustration before Wang broke through to roll the ball past Sari Van Veenendaal in the Dutch goal one minute into extra time. It gave the 'Steel Roses' a vital three points after losing their opening match to Canada, who had to settle for a goalless draw against New Zealand. Canada remain top of Group A with four points from two games, ahead of China and the Netherlands, who have three. New Zealand are bottom of the group with one point. "I think they did an excellent job today. We could have scored more and been more efficient," said China coach Hao Wei. "In the beginning I said Group A was very even, all teams are similar in their strengths so I wish we could have scored more," added the Chinese coach.
In Group B ties over in Ottawa, a second half Maren Mjelde equaliser grabbed a 1-1 draw for Norway against top ranked Germany in a clash of former champions. Anja Mittag had put 2003 and 2007 champions Germany ahead after just six minutes with her fourth goal following her hat-trick in their opening 10-0 whipping of Ivory Coast. But midfielder Mjelde equalised for 1995 winners Norway with a stunning free kick past former world player of the year Nadine Angerer in the Germany goal after 61 minutes. The Germans next play Thailand who came from a goal down to keep their hopes of advancing alive with a 3-2 win over fellow newcomers Ivory Coast. "We are very lucky, because even though we had less attacking chances, we got our first victory in our country's history," said Thailand coach Nuengrutai Srathongvian. "We are honoured to be playing the best team in the world Germany in our next match and will do our absolute best to win."