Against Jamaica: Possible DFB opponent France fails at the start of the World Cup

At the start of the World Cup blundered France surprising – the footballers from the Netherlands and Sweden started the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand with victories. The Dutch women, coached by Andries Jonker, defeated World Cup debutant Portugal 1-0 (1-0), Sweden had a lot more trouble 2-1 (0-0) against underdog South Africa and only triumphed thanks to a goal in the 90th minute.

The French – possible opponents of the DFB selection in the round of 16 – only came to a sobering 0-0 against Jamaica. While new coach Herve Renard’s debut at the Women’s World Cup was a disappointment, the Caribbean side celebrated their first point in their second appearance at the World Cup.

World Cup: France play draw against Jamaica

With the exception of the French, the favorites have so far had victories at these finals. Already on Saturday title contenders USA with a 3:0 (2:0) against Vietnam and European champions England with a 1:0 (1:0) against outsider Haiti had opened the World Cup with success, former world champions Japan even defeated Germany fright Zambia 5:0 (1:0).

Jonker’s team cheered early on for Stephanie van der Gragt’s goal (13′) – the goal only counted after checking the video images. Referee Kateryna Monsul announced her decision over the stadium loudspeakers, Jill Roord, who was offside, neither touching the ball nor interfering with Portuguese goalkeeper Ines Pereira.

Bayern Munich: Georgia Stanway scores for England

Hildah Magaia (48′) gave South Africa an undeserved lead in Wellington. The Swedes, who had been uninspired for a long time, then increased the pressure and forced Fridolina Rolfö to equalize (65′). Amanda Ilestedt (90′) then headed a corner for the favorites to win – and prevented South Africa from winning their first ever point at a World Cup. For the Africans it was the fourth defeat in their fourth World Cup game.

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The United States celebrated the double pack of goalscorer Sophia Smith (14th/45th + 7 according to video evidence). After star striker Alex Morgan (44th) missed a penalty kick, captain Lindsey Horan (77th) was successful. Georgia Stanway (29th) scored for England from German champions Bayern Munich. For Japan, Hinata Miyazawa (43’/62′) scored a brace against Zambia, who had surprisingly defeated the German team 3-2 in preparation. (aw/sid)