After Germany impressed the New Zealand crowds with a statement of their intent on Wednesday, it was the turn of USA, France and Brazil to underline their pre-tournament billing on Day 3 of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup New Zealand 2008.
As it was, Thursday proved to be a day of surprises in both Hamilton and Wellington with big crowds turning out to watch the goals rain down, as Japan and England claimed unexpected wins over the CONCACAF champions and South American runners-up respectively
Only France managed to justify their reputation, sweeping Paraguay aside thanks largely to some ruthless finishing from Pauline Crammer. In the clash of the dark horses, meanwhile, a solid Nigeria side blunted Korea Republic’s speedy build-up play to record a 2-1 win.
Pre tournament favourites USA were expected to ease past Japan in Hamilton and things looked to be going to plan when Vicky DiMartino tapped home in the third minute, but the tide had turned even before Mana Iwabuchi’s 32nd minute equaliser in front of 5,016 fans on another successful ‘school promotion day.’
Mandy Landish put the USA back infront after a goalkeeping blunder by Saki Nakumura gifted them the lead but the Japanese weren’t to be denied and superb strikes, firstly to Natsumi Kameoka from 40 yards and then Kei Yoshioka sealed all three points.
However it was France who shot to the top of Group C after a slick demolition of Paraguay 6-2 after both sides were reduced to ten women. The match included the tournament’s first hat-trick – to Pauline Crammer.
In Wellington a large crowd of 10,975 saw England edge past Brazil with three goals in the final 20 minutes – including two to Danielle Carter. Brazil now find themselves on the bottom of Group D after being lauded as pre tournament title contenders.
Wrapping up the days play was Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Korea Rupublic. Nigeria shocked everyone at Wellington Stadium, not least the Koreans, with Soo Adekeagh’s chipped opening goal after a mere 20 seconds, and extended their lead on the hour through Amenze Aighewi.
Senior international Ji So-Yu raised the prospect of a late Korean comeback but her 85th minute goal proved consolation only.
A trio of OFC officials controlled the match with Fijian referee Finau VuliVuli helped by New Zealand assistant referee Jacqueline Stephenson and Solomon Islander Jovita Qilamasala.
The second round matches get underway in Auckland and Christchurch on Saturday and continue on Sunday in Hamilton and Wellington. A bumper crowd is expected at North Harbour Stadium for the New Zealand match against Denmark at 4:00pm.