Diani hits hat-trick as France beat Panama 6-3 to make World Cup last 16
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Kadidiatou Diani hit a hat-trick as France marched into the last 16 of the Women's World Cupon Wednesday in a 6-3 thriller against Panama.
It was a polished recovery after Marta Cox's wonder strike on 67 seconds left the French reeling, swerving a freekick into the corner from 30 yards for her country's first-ever WorldCup goal.
She spun away in celebration and was mobbed by teammates as the tears flowed at a sold-out Sydney Football Stadium.
But the euphoria was short-lived as France ran riot, with Diani scoring twice — one a penalty — and Maelle Lakrar and Lea Le Garrec adding a goal apiece before half-time.
Paris Saint-Germain striker Diani got her third from the spot after the restart, but Panama refused to give up.
Yomira Pinzon added their second with a crisply-struck penalty and Lineth Cedeno scored again in an exciting finale, before Vicki Becho finished well to seal the game for France in injury time.
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FootballThe win ensured France finished top of Group F to set up a knockout round clash with the second-placed team in Group H — most likely Germany.
Jamaica held Brazil 0-0 in the other group game to finish second and face a showdown with the Group H winner, probably Colombia.
With only a point needed, France coach Herve Renard shuffled the deck, making five changes.
He rested inspirational captain Wendie Renard, with Grace Geyoro assuming the armband. Veteran striker Eugenie Le Sommer also made way with Clara Mateo and Diani up front.
But the perennial World Cup underachievers were caught on the hop as play got underway and Cox surged forward, with Le Garrec tripping her.
Cox lined up the
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