In a bid to evade a possible repeat of the ‘World Cup curse’, France started their title defence with a convincing win in Al Wakrah.
France got off to a great start at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, defeating Australia 4-1 to go top of Group D on the day of the tournament.
It was a night of joy for Oliver Giroud who became the defending champions’ joint all-time highest goalscorer, equalling Thierry Henry’s tally of 51 goals.
Kylian Mbappe also put on a show for the French side, grabbing a goal and an assist at the Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah.
France survive first-half scare
Going into the game without a win in their last six World Cup matches, the Socceroos were hungry to break the spell and got off to a great start in Al Wakrah.
On the stroke of the ninth minute, Craig Goodwin found himself some space inside the box to get on the end of a pass from Mathew Leckie before sending the ball into the roof of the net.
It was only the second international goal for Goodwin who was making his 11 appearances for the national team.
Things went from bad to worse for France as they faced an injury heartbreak just two minutes later, with Lucas Herandez getting substituted early following a challenge.
Didier Deschamps’ side eventually got themselves on the scoresheet thanks to a headed goal by Adrien Rabiot.
Just five minutes later, it was number two for the defending champions as their attacking prowess against an Australian side who had now retreated, paid off with Giroud getting on the end of Rabiot’s assist.
France attempted to go another goal ahead just before half-time, but Mbappe’s shot went a whisker over the crossbar.
Mbappe helps Giroud equal Henry’s record
Pulse
