FIFA Women's WC: France beat Panama 6-3 after Diani's hat-trick to reach knockout stage
Kadidiatou Diani hit a hat-trick as France marched into the last 16 of the Women's World Cup on 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 free kick into the corner from 30 yards for her country's first-ever World Cup goal.
She spun away in celebration and was mobbed by teammates as tears flowed at a sold-out Sydney Football Stadium.
trending now
Also Read: Sweden win to set up USA showdown; South Africa stun Italy to reach last 16
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 as France relaxed.
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.
The 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.
«From the get-go the most important thing was for us to win this group,» said France coach Herve Renard. «But it was a bit of a shock this evening, which shows the women's game has turned up a notch.
»We need to stay focused and not get ahead of ourselves, which we saw a couple of times in this game."
With only a point needed, 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
Read on wionews.com
