Colombia shock France with historic win - FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
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Colombia have pulled off the first true upset of Canada 2015 and created history in the process after beating France 2-0 to record their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup™ victory.
France looked dominant for much of the first 45 minutes but Les Bleues failed to create any real scoring chances, while Colombia remained focused and disciplined and were ultimately rewarded for their hard work.
Against the run of play, the South Americans opened the scoring to shock the French supporters in the stands. A lofted ball over the backline sent Lady Andrade through on goal and the No16 showed great composure to finish past Sarah Bouhaddi to give the South Americans the lead.
That strike boosted Las Cafeteras’ confidence and momentum slowly began to shift in their direction. France strike Eugenie Le Sommer had Les Bleues’ best chance a few minutes before the break, but goalkeeper Sandra Sepulveda was up to the task.
After the interval Colombia came out the stronger side, nearly doubling their lead on several occasions. France nearly equalised with 20 minutes to go after Sepulveda handled the ball just outside of her area, setting up a dangerous free kick. Camille Abily’s effort was too tame, however, and Sepulveda saved comfortably.
Sensing real danger of getting nothing out of the game, France continued to press forward as Philippe Bergeroo used his three substitutes to bring on additional attacking options.
Abily, Le Sommer, Claire Lavogez, Jessica Houara and Amandine Henry all came close to earning a point for the French, but Colombia’s backline remained steadfast.
Las Cafeteras showed great composure to keep the French at bay and they were once again rewarded with a goal courtesy of Catalina Usme’s quick thinking on the counter-attack.
Celebrations erupted from the Colombian bench at the final whistle as the South Americans triumphed in what will likely be considered the most surprising result of the competition so far.
Live Your Goals Player of the Match: Lady Andrade (Colombia)