Last-gasp Martens winner keeps Lionesses on track for World Cup

Lieke Martens is congratulated by team-mates. Photo: VI via HH
Lieke Martens is congratulated by team-mates. Photo: VI via HH

The Netherlands’ women’s team remain on course for next year’s World Cup finals thanks to an injury-time winner from Lieke Martens.

The Barcelona star’s curling shot in the 92nd minute broke the resistance of a stubborn Slovakia side in what had looked set to be a frustrating night in Heerenveen’s Abe Lenstra Stadium.

The win means the Dutch need a point in their final group match against Norway to qualify for next summer’s tournament in France.

The Dutch team are four points ahead of Norway, who must now beat Slovakia on August 31 to set up the decider in Oslo on September 4.

‘It’s all or nothing, but we’re in a better position,’ said Martens after Tuesday night’s game. ‘Bring it on.’

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