Having been in charge for just three months, Hervé Renard led out his French side at the Sydney Football Stadium. Les Bleues would face Jamaica, who are making just their second appearance at a FIFA World Cup tournament having lost all three of their group games in 2019.
FRA: Peyraud-Magnin; Karchaoui, Renard, Cascarino, Lakrar; Majri, Toletti, Geyoro; Mateo, Le Sommer, Diani
JAM: Spencer; Wiltshire, Sampson, A Swaby, C Swaby; Blackwood, Spence, Primus, Brown; Shaw, Matthews
The highly-anticipated Wendie Renard v Khadija Shaw battle commenced in fiery fashion, with the duo clashing heads early on – though both were fine to continue. A fairly lacklustre start to the match saw Jamaica apply continued pressure to the French defence, in a desperate bid to force a mistake.
But no such mistake followed, and in fact it was les Bleues that looked set to find the opener after Geyoro was fouled by Shaw. Majri’s delivery was squandered by Renard, but the towering defender would have another opportunity just before the thirty-minute mark. While she was able to nod this one towards goal, Spencer was able to collect her effort with ease.
The game remained goalless as the interval rolled around, though this game had certainly not lacked action. A subpar French performance had allowed the ever-dangerous Khadija Shaw the freedom to dictate the game, and it felt as thought it would be a matter of time before the Reggae Girlz found a breakthrough.
But arguably the defining moment of the match was Khadija Shaw’s second yellow card. Deep in stoppage time, an unnecessary challenge on Renard was penalised – meaning the Jamaican will miss the Reggae Girlz’ next match.
Brazil will face Panama on Monday, 23 July as the Group F action continues to intensify. France will then face Brazil on Saturday, 29 July – with Panama playing Jamaica on the same day.
