Group F favorites France were held to a 0-0 draw by Jamaica in an unconvincing start to their FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign at a wet Sydney on Sunday.
Even though they were missing a slew of prominent players, France, world No. 5, were heavily favored but rued missed opportunities against a brave Jamaica who defended superbly throughout the physical contest.
In front of 39,000 fans, France dictated with 13 shots to six but failed to penetrate as Jamaica recorded their first-ever point in the tournament.
With France shorthanded, Jamaica sensed a major upset and they started aggressively in a freewheeling contest.
Star striker Khadija Shaw, who was scintillating for Manchester City this past season, proved a thorn for a rattled French defense and continually won free kicks in dangerous positions.
After recovering from a clash of heads with France star Wendie Renard, Shaw missed several opportunities to hit the scoreboard, including a thumping long-range free kick just before half-time.
France shook from their slumber to unleash waves of attack but were unable to break the deadlock.
Their momentum carried over into the second half, as France controlled possession and pressed aggressively.
Kadidiatou Diani had a golden opportunity in the 68th minute, but she headed wide to leave France frustrated.
France had several late chances with a header from Diani hitting the crossbar and then the left bar.
During a frenetic ending, Shaw was sent off after receiving her second yellow card but Jamaica held on to secure a point against the odds.
