The Canadian women’s soccer team secured a thrilling victory against host country France in a Group A match held in Saint-Étienne, France. The intense game ended with a dramatic goal by Canadian defender Vanessa Gilles during the 12th minute of stoppage time, breaking the 1-1 tie and sealing the win for Canada.
This crucial victory has kept Canada's chances alive for advancing to the knockout stage, despite facing a six-point deduction imposed by FIFA due to a scandal involving a staff member. The staff member in question flew a drone to film an opponent's closed-door training sessions, resulting in the penalty.
The match was not without its share of unfortunate incidents, as in the 68th minute, French goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin had to be stretchered off the field after sustaining a head injury from a cleat by her own teammate. Constance Picaud stepped in as her replacement for the remainder of the game.
Following the deduction, Canada currently holds the third position in the group standings, trailing behind Colombia and France. The upcoming match against Colombia on Wednesday at the Allianz Riviera in Nice, France, will be crucial for Canada as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout stage of the tournament.
