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Round of 16: Colombia vs Jamaica & France vs Morocco
France dominates Morocco while Colombia narrowly advances to the quarterfinals
The drama and action of the Women's World Cup continues to captivate audiences around the globe as the Round of 16 concludes. Today’s edition features France's unmatched dominance with a convincing win over Morocco, Colombia making history, and a special feature on France’s all-time top scorer. Join us as we navigate the twists, the turns, and the tales of unparalleled passion and talent in this unforgettable chapter of the Women's World Cup.
Colombia vs Jamaica (1-0)
In a historic win, Colombia advanced World Cup quarterfinals for the first time by defeating Jamaica 1-0, thanks to a second-half goal from Catalina Usme. The match, held in Melbourne, was notable for the anticipated showdown between Colombian sensation Linda Caicedo and Jamaica's Khadija “Bunny” Shaw. However, Shaw, who had an impressive scoring record with Manchester City, went scoreless during the World Cup, and it was Usme's crucial goal that proved decisive. The Colombians will next face European champions England in the knockout stage.
France vs Morocco (4-0)
Eugenie Le Sommer scored twice as France defeated Morocco 4-0 in the Round of 16, booking their place in the quarterfinals against co-hosts Australia. The victory marked the fourth consecutive time France has advanced to the quarterfinals, with their rapid three-goal assault in the first 23 minutes, initiated by Kadidiatou Diani, setting the tone. Despite their loss, Morocco made history as the first Arab nation to reach the knockout stages and the first to register a Women's World Cup win, showcasing their progress just three years after forming a women's team.
Player Spotlight: Eugénie Le Sommer
Eugénie Le Sommer stands out in the world of women's soccer as a prolific forward for the Lyon club and the French national team. Although primarily known as a creative attacking midfielder and left winger, she has also showcased her skills as a second striker for France. Notably, she has carved a significant reputation by scoring more goals for France than any other player, irrespective of gender. With ten French domestic titles and an impressive record of winning eight European Cups with Lyon, her credentials make her one of the most decorated players in modern women's club football.
Born on May 18, 1989, Le Sommer is one among seven siblings and comes from a sports-oriented family, with her mother being a former football player. She embarked on her football journey at the tender age of five, initially playing for Trélissac FC and subsequently moving through clubs in the Brittany region. Her notable achievements include earning multiple honors in the youth section of FC Lorient and a successful stint at CNFE Clairefontaine, the women’s section of the esteemed Clairefontaine Academy. Le Sommer's move to Lyon in 2010 further bolstered her career, leading her to clinch several titles, including Lyon's seventh overall win in the 2019–20 UEFA Women’s Champions League.
On the international front, Le Sommer has showcased her prowess in several championships. Beginning her international journey with under-17, under-19, and under-20 teams, she made her mark in the 2008 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, winning the Bronze Ball as the tournament’s third-best player. In 2020, she achieved the milestone of becoming France's all-time top scorer, surpassing the record previously held by Marinette Pichon. In the ongoing 2023 Women's World Cup, Le Sommer has already netted three goals in just three matches, making her a thrilling player to watch in the upcoming quarterfinals.