U20 World Cup: France defeats South Africa in opening match | OneFootball

France U20

On Monday, the French team and South Africa faced off in their opening match of the U20 World Cup. Les Bleuets kicked off their campaign with a hard-fought victory.

In Chile this Monday, France needed to overcome South Africa to make a strong start to their U20 World Cup journey. With Elyaz Zidane, Lisandru Olmeta, Monaco’s Lucas Michal, and Marseille’s Tadjidine Mmadi in the starting lineup, Les Bleuets broke the deadlock early thanks to Lens midfielder Anthony Bermont (1-0, 25’).

After a VAR review just before halftime, the referee awarded a penalty to South Africa following a mistake by Elyaz Zidane in the box. Jody Ah Shene calmly converted from the spot to bring the South Africans level against Les Bleuets (1-1, 33’). Despite France’s sustained pressure, it wasn’t until the closing stages that Michal restored the lead for Les Tricolores (2-1, 81’). A crucial opening win for Bernard Diomède’s men, who now turn their attention to the United States on Thursday.