As the largest spectacle of women’s football continues across Australia and New Zealand, Day 10 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup witnessed thrilling performances from groups G and F. The race for the knockout stages is intensifying, and some teams have already begun securing their positions.
Sweden dominated Italy at Wellington Regional Stadium, winning with an impressive 5-0 scoreline. This significant victory assures the Swedish team a spot in the knockout stages. Meanwhile, France barely scraped a victory against Brazil. Despite Brazil’s lack of a previous win over the French team, they put up a spirited fight. Jamaica also carved a niche in the tournament’s history by claiming their first World Cup victory in Perth.
The showdown between France and Brazil was a match to watch on Day 10. In their past 11 encounters, Brazil was unable to secure a win against Les Bleues, with France winning 6 times and drawing 5. This pattern persisted in their latest encounter. French stalwart Eugenie Le Sommer opened the scoring in the 17th minute with a remarkable header, pushing her national team record to 90 international goals. However, Brazil clawed back with Debinha from Kansas City equalising in the 58th minute. Eventually, French captain Wendie Renard clinched the winning goal in the 83rd minute, keeping the French women’s hope alive. France now requires a win against Panama in its final group match to advance to the knockout stages.
Sweden’s performance has been stellar, securing a spot in the knockout round with one match remaining. The Swedes demonstrated an aggressive style of play against Italy, netting three goals before halftime. This commanding win harks back to Sweden’s resounding 8-0 victory over Japan in 1991. Amanda Ilestedt initiated the goal fest in the 39th minute, quickly followed by Fridolina Rolfo and Stina Blackstenius. Showing no signs of relenting in the second half, Ilestedt and substitute Rebecka Blomqvist added two more to the tally, crushing Italy’s hopes of a comeback.
In another historic moment, Panama and Jamaica marked the first encounter of two CONCACAF teams in the group stages of the Women’s World Cup. While the first half remained goalless, Jamaican captain Allyson Swaby’s second-half header sealed Panama’s fate, ending their chances of progressing in the tournament.
Finally, French coach Herve Renard achieved a unique milestone on Day 10, becoming the first manager to secure a win in both the Women’s and Men’s World Cups. This accomplishment follows his victory with Saudi Arabia over Argentina in the Men’s World Cup last year. Renard’s recent triumph only adds to his growing reputation in the world of football.
