Finally.
After their shock loss to Colombia a few days ago, France’s Women’s World Cup future was in doubt going into today’s last and decisive group-stage match against Mexico. It is no longer in doubt.
Needing a draw or a win to advance to the round of 16, France elected to sit superstar, struggling midfielder Louisa Nécib, in favor of an ultra-attacking approach. The gamble paid off after 35 seconds, when Marie-Laure Delie broke through. Nine minutes into the match, an own goal doubled France’s lead, and four minutes after that, when Eugénie Le Sommer put France out of reach with the beautiful team goal, seen above. Le Sommer then deflected point-blank shot from Delie to put Les Bleues up by four goals in the 36th minute.
In the other Group F game, England are playing Colombia. Colombia lead the group with four points, while England are level with France with three from two games. England are beating Colombia, 2-0. This is incredible news for us, because if France want to finish first in the group, they’ll try to score as many goals as possible in the second half. For 45 minutes, anyway, we’ll be able to see the most beautiful attacking side in the World Cup continue to attack, and continue to bust Mexico’s asses.
[Fox]