In what is set to be a preview of the hugely exciting Women’s World Cup this summer, France’s national team scored early in the second half to defeat the USA 2-0 in a friendly on Sunday.
The goals from Eugenie Le Sommer and Jessica Houara came within a minute of each other, and surprised the perennial favourites. U.S. goalkeeper Ashlyn Harris was making her fifth international appearance and playing in place of suspended Hope Solo.
All-time leading U.S. scorer Abby Wambach, who came off the bench, was unable to convert a penalty kick against goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi in the 66th minute.
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This was third-ranked France’s first victory in 17 matches against the United States. With a 0-0 draw against Brazil in late December, the second-ranked Americans have been shut out in consecutive games for the first time in 13 years.
It was the first of 10 matches for the U.S. women before the team heads to Canada for the Women’s World Cup. The United States drew a tough group with Sweden, Nigeria and Australia. France is grouped with England, Colombia and Mexico.
