France survived an almighty scare from Brazil to win 2-1 after extra time and advance to the quarterfinals of the Women’s World Cup, where they’ll play the winner of tomorrow’s match between the USWNT and Spain. The goalscoring hero was Amandine Henry, who got on the end of a set piece in the 106th minute to send France through.
After the shitshow that was England vs. Cameroon earlier in the day, it was only natural that the biggest talking point from the first half was another controversial VAR intrusion.
Valérie Gauvin appeared to have given France the lead in the 25th minute, but the goal was ruled out for a foul on Brazil goalkeeper Bárbara.
Another game, another VAR controversy!
France believe they have a 1-0 lead as Gauvin and Barbara collide. But after a lengthy review, VAR decides it was a foul. No goal! #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/3MLaF9RQdI— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2019
Is this a foul? pic.twitter.com/xyAs8cgjEt
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2019
But in the 52nd minute, Gauvin got her goal with Kadidiatou Diani providing the assist.
Can't take that one away!
Gauvin puts the ball in the net again after a great run and cross from Diani, and France get their 1-0 lead. #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/czo21hzleE— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2019
Brazil’s response was furious. Cristiane had a header tipped onto the crossbar, but Thaisa found the equalizer in the 63rd minute. The VAR again played a role, nullifying the assistant’s offside flag in the buildup and there could be no controversy about this decision.
WE'RE ALL TIED UP!
Brazil get the equalizer through Thaisa after VAR intervenes AGAIN, overturning an offside decision. #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/MhSxvHGGjT— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2019
We entered the first period of extra time, and it was Brazil that created the first great opportunity. Debinha’s goal-bound shot was scrambled clear by Griedge Mbock Bathy.
MBOCK BATHY SAVES FRANCE!
Debinha has the potential game-winner on the breakaway but Mbock slides in and France survive! pic.twitter.com/2o2OwxHJvD— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2019
One minute into the second period of extra time and France grabbed the winner via Henry.
AMANDINE HENRY! 2-1 FRANCE!
Big players come through in big moments, and France's captain just gave the hosts the lead in extra time. #FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/EzYzdSnsrO— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2019
The host nation moves on. On the other side, we may have seen the final World Cup appearances for Brazil’s legendary trio of Formiga, Cristiane and Marta.
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