Doha: Making the reigning world champions look like they might repeat their first-match losing streak, France bounced back from their first setback to start their quest for the title in Qatar with a resounding win over Australia. Last night, after conceding one goal, France fought back to win by four. Olivier Giroud, who dazzled with a double goal, and Adrien Rabiot and Kylian Mbappe, who scored one goal, helped France win.
The win comes as a huge relief for France, who have been in the midst of injury concerns. Deschamps has shown coach Didi that he can assemble a good side despite the absence of Karim Benzema in attack, Paul Pogba in midfield, N’Golo Kante and Raphael Varane in defence. Giroud-Mbappe-Griezmann’s focus on progress and Rabiot’s focus on creating opportunities was the key to success.
France, who top Group D with three points, face Denmark on Saturday and Tunisia next Wednesday.
Here are the goals
0-1
9th minute
Goodwin
Initially, Australia made advances that shocked France. Craig Goodwin scored their first goal after latching on to Harry Souter’s pass from Matthew Leckie’s cross.
1-1
27th minute
Adrian Rabiot
France, who were initially upset, then came back with two goals in five minutes. In the 27th minute, Griezmann’s corner was given to Theo Hernandez Rabiot. Rabiot’s header went into the net leaving Aussie goalkeeper Matthew Ryan with no chance.
2-1
32nd minute
Oliver Giroud
Rabiot cut the ball back and Giroud easily scored his first goal.
3-1
68th minute
Kylian Mbappe
Dembele’s devastating cross jumped between two defenders and headed Mbappe into the net.
4-1
71st minute
Oliver Giroud
Giroud converted Mbappe’s cross from the left wing for his second goal.
51
With a brace, Olivier Giroud equaled Thierry Onty’s record for most goals (51) for France. At the age of 36 years and 54 days, Giroud is the oldest European player to score in the World Cup.