France Opens Women’s World Cup With Rout Of South Korea

France got the Women's World Cup started with a 4-0 win over South Korea in front of expectant fans. DW's Sophie Serbini was in Paris to witness a fine performance in an atmosphere that promises much for the future.

France 4-0 South Korea, Parc des Princes
(Le Sommer 9', Renard 35', 45'+2, Henry 85')

France certainly did not disappoint its public in the curtain-raiser of the Women's World Cup.

Against South Korea, a pretty weak opponent, Les Bleues were expected to shine. And shine they did from the start, scoring three goals during the first half courtesy of Lyon's stars Eugenie Le Sommer and Wendie Renard with a brace.

A fourth goal by teammate at Olympique Lyonnais, Mbock Bathy Nka, could have been added to the scoreline but the referee, with VAR's help, cancelled it for a marginal offside.

The second half didn't have the same vista as France knew that they had it in the bag, but they still played with the steadiness of a favorite. In the 86th minute, after good movement by Le Sommer, captain Amandine Henry scored the fourth and final goal with a 20-yard shot that whizzed into the left corner.

At the end of the game, the girls looked visibly happy and ready to let the 45,000 spectators of Parc des Princes — a record attendance for a women's game in France — celebrate with them. The connection between the team and fans at full time was clear, and France's two-goal hero and woman of the match Renard commented on the raucous atmosphere inside the stadium.

"It was a real rush of emotion, when you have 45,000 people singing your anthem this way. It's always an emotional moment and we used this great crowd to start the game well," the Lyon defender said.