2024 Olympics: Canada secure opening win against New Zealand | OneFootball

The joint opening match of the 2024 Paris Olympics was shrouded in controversy before a ball had even been kicked. Reigning Olympic champions Canada were accused of flying a drone over the New Zealand team’s training session. As a result, manager Bev Priestman did not take charge of her side’s Olympics opener. The incident also led to two Canadian team members being sent home from the camp.

The match was allowed to go on as planned, however both teams were forced to call upon their back up squad players. An ankle injury to Canadian defender Jayde Riviere saw her replaced by Shelina Zadorsky. Meanwhile, Michael Foster stepped following the withdrawal of Ali Riley.

First half action

Both teams experienced a disappointing group stage exit from the 2023 World Cup. With major changes for both countries, the two would be looking to do better in their Olympic campaign. After a relatively quiet start, the match came to life with 13 minutes on the clock. A brilliant corner launched in by New Zealand captain Katie Kitching found Mackenzie Barry. The defender managed to send the ball looping beyond Kailen Sheridan in the Canada goal.

With half-time approaching, Canada found the equaliser. Some brilliant synced passing in midfield saw the ball find Cloe Lacasse on the penalty spot. The forward snuck ahead of her defender, turning the ball into the top corner with some real power. The goal saw the teams go in equal at the break.

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Canada edge out New Zealand

The Football Ferns had just one shot on target in the first half and continued along that theme after the break. Canada continuously looked a threat and put the New Zealand back line under constant pressure. The winning goal came for Canada.

The move started with a perfect through-ball from Jessie Fleming, into the path of substitute Evelyne Viens, who slotted the ball beyond Anna Leat in the New Zealand goal. The driven strike came from the right side of the penalty area, and went in off the post. The referee waved away a few late New Zealand penalty appeals. After a nail-biting eight minutes of added-time, the match finished 2-1 to the Canadians.

Both teams will be looking to recover following what felt like a frantic match. Canada face a tough test against France whilst New Zealand will look to secure their first points against Colombia.

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