West Ham United women's team forward Shekiera Martinez featured for 74 minutes as Germany U23s sealed a dramatic 2-1 victory in the second of two friendly matches against the USA U23s.
After playing the first half of her country's 2-1 defeat in the sides' first meeting on Friday, Martinez was once again selected from the start by boss Kathrin Peter in Pforzheim, and nearly opened the scoring on the half-hour only to be denied by the visiting goalkeeper.
Soon after though, Germany edged their noses in front when Werder Bremen striker Sophie Weidauer latched on to a cross from the right and finished off from a tight angle.
The USA drew themselves level with a penalty, four minutes before half-time, but the hosts remained on top, and Women's Young Hammer of the Year Martinez again threatened with a shot after displaying some neat footwork early in the second period.
Despite it looking like they would have to settle for a draw, following a spell of USA pressure, Germany notched the decisive goal three minutes from time through Tuana Mahmoud, who finished off impressively from the edge of the area after a marauding run from her own half.
The result marks a strong end to an incredible campaign for Irons No19 Martinez, who also won the WSL Rising Star award in May after scoring ten goals in 12 league appearances in the second half of 2024/25.
For more information on other Hammers who could be involved for their respective nations during the international break, click HERE!
