It’s been quite the week for the Canadian women’s national team.
From navigating “dronegate” to securing a 2-1 win over New Zealand in Group A action at the Paris Olympics on Thursday, it’s hard to predict what news will arise next.
That said, interim head coach Andy Spence must invigorate his squad for a crucial match against the Olympic hosts Sunday afternoon (3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT). As FIFA has stripped Canada of six points in the Paris Games women’s soccer tournament, Les Rouges will be looking for a win in order to have a shot at advancing.
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LIVE SCORE: CANADA 0, FRANCE 0
• 33′: Canada’s player of the half so far is defender Jade Rose. The 21-year-old is holding down the Canadian backline while using her hustle to win the ball back.
• 30′: After Huitema is taken down just outside the box, Fleming’s set piece delivery hits France’s wall and ricochets wide. It’s a good chance for Canada, but still far from a goal opportunity.
Notably, when Canada attacks it has approximately five players push up the pitch. On the other hand, the French approach sees seven attackers. This is something Spence could address at halftime.
• 25′: The Great White North’s offensive spark is missing. While Canada is doing its best to hold France from the backline, Spence’s squad must find a way to generate attack — or else Canada risks bowing out of the group stage.
In the stands, France fans sing “Les Les Bleues” loud and clear.
• 20′: Chance for Canada. Prince blasts up the pitch on the break, but is in an awkward position and can’t slide the ball past the French keeper.
• 15′: Canada is playing with fire. France captain Wendie Renard’s header nearly converts to a tap-in goal for the hosts. Les Rouges seems to have lost its solid start and is now looking nervous and hesitant, quickly clearing the ball instead of holding it and pushing it forward.
• 10′: The energetic home crowd is certainly playing to France’s advantage. Every time the French touch the ball, cheers and claps erupt from the stands. In the last few minutes, the ball has predominantly been in Canada’s half. Spence’s side must be more patient in possession.
• 5′: It’s been a promising start for Canada, with Prince showing her pace up the flank in the opening seconds.
Canada’s key to the game will be pressuring France’s press with numbers. However, there’s no room for mistakes. Les Bleues show speed and hunger on possession, and will pounce on any loose balls.
• 1′: After the national anthems and captain’s coin toss, we’re underway at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard in Saint-Étienne.
• Head-to-head: In the 11 times these teams have met, France won seven, Canada won twice, and there’s been two draws.
• Pre-game: Kickoff is 10 minutes away. Will Canada come out strong after FIFA’s bombshell sanctions, or will France take advantage of Les Rouges‘ disjointed state?
• Pre-game: Speaking of lineup changes, France manager Hervé Renard makes two. De Almeida and Bacha replace Lakrar and Karchaoui.
On Thursday, France beat Colombia 3-2 in its first Group A game.
• Pre-game: Spence has selected his second starting XI at the helm.
The back four of Rose, Gilles, Buchanan and Lawrence stay the same as last time out, however, changes come in midfield. Awujo enters the fray alongside Quinn and Carle, while skipper Fleming takes on a more attacking position.
Up front, Huitema gets the nod over Leon and Lacasse, who both slip to the bench. Striker Prince and keeper Sheridan retain their spots.
• Pre-game: Welcome to Sportsnet’s live blog for Canada vs. France at the Paris Olympics. Today’s game between the women’s soccer powerhouses kicks off at 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT.
Can’t watch the match, or simply looking for some extra information? On this live blog, we’ll keep you updated with the drama as it happens.
