NEW DELHI: In an exhilarating warm-up match ahead of the Women's World Cup, Manchester City striker Mary Fowler proved to be the difference maker, scoring the only goal as Australia secured a 1-0 victory over fifth-ranked France.
The match, played in front of a record-breaking crowd of over 50,000 passionate fans in Melbourne, provided a thrilling spectacle.
Fowler's clinical finish in the 66th minute ensured that the tournament co-hosts head into their opening World Cup match against Ireland with a morale-boosting win under their belt.
The victory also ended France's new coach Herve Renard's three-match winning streak since taking charge.
However, the win was not without concerns as Lyon defender Selma Bacha suffered an injury and was stretchered off in the closing moments, clutching her left ankle. The extent of her injury remains to be seen, adding to the potential challenges faced by the French team.
With this impressive performance, Australia's women's team showcased their capabilities and will be eager to carry the momentum forward as they embark on their World Cup campaign.
"Always an important game, they're a great team and I thought we put in a great performance tonight," said Australia skipper Sam Kerr.
"But this all about the journey, about building confidence for next week."
Both sides started with close to their best XI and had early half-chances after a nervy start, with Australia threatening on the counter-attack.
But it took until the 16th minute for the first shot on target with Bacha's stinging strike parried by goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold.
France started to click in midfield and twice went close, but the home defence was solid and they went to the break scoreless.
The deadlock was finally broken when new Real Madrid recruit Hayley Raso accepted the ball on the right and picked out substitute Fowler, who made no mistake.
"We are disappointed because we wanted to win, it was a tough game and Australia play very good," said France forward Eugenie Le Sommer.
"But we had good chances as well, unfortunately we couldn't finish. It was a great atmosphere and a great feeling to play in front of so many fans."
As well as Ireland, Australia also face 11-time African champions Nigeria and reigning Olympic gold medallists Canada in World Cup Group B.
Les Blues start their campaign against Jamaica on July 23 in Sydney and will also play Brazil and Panama in Group F.
(With AFP inputs)
