Jayde Eldredge (37’) and Makea Leonard (51’) netted the inaugural goals for Samoa in a FIFA tournament, ensuring their place in history.
The French team really went for it with an incredible 61 shots compared to just two from Samoa, but the little Pacific nation made the most of their chances.
Juan Chang Urrea’s squad had a rough start, giving up a goal just two minutes in from Camille Marmillot, who headed it in from a tricky cross at the far post. Thais Gallais then added a couple more goals to make it 3-0, but Eldredge’s goal right before halftime gave Samoa a glimmer of hope.
Goalkeeper Grace Ae was a superstar under constant pressure, doing an amazing job to keep her team in the game. When Leonard scored early in the second half, Samoa started dreaming about pulling off a huge upset. Sadly, Elena Moreira Da Rocha was locked in the win for France deep into stoppage time.
Even though they faced a loss, Samoa will take a lot of confidence into their next Group D match against Canada on Thursday and can’t wait to get back on the field!
