Canada secure vital win to stay alive in Olympic women’s football

PARIS: Reigning champions Canada earned a lifeline at the Paris Games with a dramatic 2-1 victory over hosts France, while Spain and the United States clinched wins to advance to the quarter-finals on the second matchday of Olympic women’s football on Sunday.

Canada’s bid to defend their 2021 gold medal has faced significant challenges, including a drone spying scandal that resulted in the year-long suspension of head coach Bev Priestman and a six-point deduction by FIFA. This left the team needing maximum points from their remaining Group A matches, now under the guidance of assistant coach Andy Spence.

In a nail-biting match against France, Canada managed to secure a crucial win in the dying moments, keeping their hopes alive. The top two teams from each of the three groups, along with the two best third-placed sides, advance to the knockout stage. Canada now face Colombia in their final group match on Wednesday, needing not only a win but also a favorable goal difference to progress.

The United States, four-time Olympic gold medallists, continued their strong performance in Group B with a convincing 4-1 win over Germany in Marseille. A first-half brace from Sophia Smith and goals from Mallory Swanson and Lynn Williams sealed the victory, ensuring their place in the quarter-finals.

In Group C, Brazil missed the opportunity to advance after a late 2-1 defeat to Japan at Parc des Princes, a result that leaves their qualification hopes hanging in the balance.(Reuters)