The main match of the group was shown, the match between Australia and the Red Panthers. Australia, ranked third in the world, appears to be in control, but they still have to allow some Belgian chances.
The Red Panthers were unable to capitalize on many penalty kicks and De Mot and Puvrez were unable to push Ballenghien’s close-range effort into the Australian goal: 0-0 in the first half.
In the third trimester, the Red Panthers hooded their nose. Leclef was briefly on the bench and Australia took full advantage. Hayes and Greiner’s two mistakes in the Belgian defense were punished mercilessly.
Courageously out of desperation, the Belgian women tried to do something about the buildup. Belgium squandered space, but could count on a strong brass in the back to prevent heavy suffering.
In the final final stage, the Red Panthers insisted: a penalty kick by Vanden Borre went off the line and after some clever action from Vandermeiren, the Australian goalkeeper was on the way.
The statistics after the match were clear: 16 shots on goal for Belgium, 8 for Australia, 8 penalties for Belgium and zero for Australia. A score of 0-2 on the scoreboard will hurt the Red Panthers, who have to secure second place (and finals 1/8) against Japan tomorrow.
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