OneFootball
Richard Buxton·23 July 2023
OneFootball
Richard Buxton·23 July 2023
With the World Cup taking place in Australia and New Zealand, plenty of fans around the world will be in bed when some of the games take place. Not to worry, we have you covered.
The Netherlands’ Group E campaign began with a 1-0 win over Portugal.
France were held to a goalless draw by a resolute Jamaica in Sydney.
Sweden snatched a late victory against South Africa.
Jamaica’s latest outing at the Women’s World Cup began in memorable fashion against France.
The 43rd-ranked nation frustrated their fifth-placed rivals, who dominated chances and possession throughout.
The only downside to the Reggae Girlz’ impressive feat was the loss of Khadija ‘Bunny’ Shaw deep into second half stoppage time.
The Manchester City striker was sent off for a second bookable offence as Lorne Donaldson’s side hung on to the very last.
Her teammates’ jubilant celebrations at the final whistle was no less than their hard-fought effort deserved.
It’s hard to look beyond Amanda Ilestedt after her late winner which helped Sweden edge past South Africa.
Mere weeks after joining Arsenal, the defender rose highest to meet Kosovare Asllani’s cross with an angled header.
Already a tournament veteran by appearing at a third World Cup, Ilested’s set-piece ability could be key to the Swedes going far in this one.
Ilestedt’s 90th-minute winner had Sweden’s players literally jumping for joy.
History could be made at the World Cup on Monday should Nouhaila Benzina play in Morocco’s Group H encounter with Germany.
If selected in Melbourne, the defender will become the first player to feature in the tournament wearing a hijab.