England kicked off their FIFA Women’s World Cup™ campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over a hugely impressive Haiti side in Brisbane.
A dramatic passage of play midway through the first half led to England going in front. A penalty was awarded – following a VAR check – for a handball by Haiti’s Batcheba Louis. Stanway’s spot-kick was athletically saved by Kerly Theus, only for it to emerge the Haiti stopper had strayed off her line. The Bayern Munich star made no mistake at the second time of asking, slotting into the bottom-left corner.
While England enjoyed most of the possession, Haiti were carrying a significant threat themselves, with the outstanding Melchie Dumornay mesmerising the Brisbane crowd with her skill, touch and ingenuity.
The Women’s World Cup debutantes had a golden chance to level just before half-time but Roselord Borgella was unable to get the required connection on her header from six yards out.
Dumornay went close shortly after the break, with her rising shot forcing Earps into a fine one-handed stop. Haiti’s poise, tenacity and ambition continued to catch the eye, and they thought their moment had come when Roseline Eloissaint found space 12 yards from goal and let fly with a low drive.
Earps showed why she is the reigning Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper, however, by superbly saving with her out-stretched left boot as England claimed victory.
Stanway’s Penalty Decisive
Georgia Stanway’s penalty proved to be the difference between the two sides in a hard-fought encounter. The Bayern Munich midfielder made no mistake from the spot after being fouled by Batcheba Louis, and her goal proved to be the only one of the game.
Dumornay Shines for Haiti
Melchie Dumornay was the standout player for Haiti. The 23-year-old midfielder was a constant threat to the England defence, and she created several chances for her teammates. Dumornay’s performance will give Haiti hope that they can cause an upset in the tournament.
England Claim Victory
England were the better team on the day, but they had to work hard for their win. Haiti were well-organised and they made it difficult for England to create clear-cut chances. However, England’s quality eventually told, and they claimed a narrow victory.
