USA erupts in second half, tops France 3:0 to begin U-20 Women’s World Cup

November 20, 2008

CHILLAN, Chile – Sydney Leroux scored a pair of second-half goals to lead the United States to a 3:0 victory over France on Wednesday in the opening game for both teams at the U-20 Women’s World Cup.

Alex Morgan gave the USA the lead in the 53rd and Leroux scored the first of her pair three minutes later. Leroux tacked on additional insurance in the 71st for the USA, which has never failed to reach the semifinals in the three previous tournaments.

France and the United States had equal chances in the first half, with Les Bleuettes missing the best opportunity in the 20th minute when USA goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher failed to clear a cross with an attempted punch, but Eugenie Le Sommer shot over the bar from 1 yard after the ball fell to her feet at the right post.

The French outshot the USA 19:7, but all of the Americans’ were on goal.

The United States next faces Argentina on Saturday. Argentina held on to draw 0:0 with China earlier Wednesday.

CONCACAF’s two other qualifiers, Canada and Mexico, begin their campaign in the tournament on Thursday. Canada faces Asian runner-up Japan while Mexico faces Norway, making its debut in the event.

Go to Source

Share and Enjoy: