The French and English National teams both embarked on their World Cup quests Tuesday, but only one team looked like an actual threat.

The French applied pressure on the English from kickoff, and England never found a rhythm in this game and looked disjointed the whole way through. With 58% of ball possession, France was able to control the pace of this game and prevent England from attacking.  

It wasn't until the 29th minute when Eugenie Le Sommer of France struck a bomb right past English goalie Karen Bardsley and put up France 1-0. English head coach Mark Sampson showed a conservative game plan in this one, wanting to defend more than attack.  That plan showed statistically as France took 16 shots as opposed to three from England.

Two of England's three attempts at goal were off target, and they had less corner kicks than the French, 6-3. With three points in their pocket, the French can look forward to their next game, but the English must be more aggressive and use 28 year old forward Eniola Aluko more in order to advance.

While each side had eight fouls, it was Chapman on the English side that earned a yellow card. If she gets another one she will be suspended for a game.  Necib of France proved once again that she is a force and that her dribbling must be respected. With Le Sommer, Liusia Nécib and Captain Wendie Renard, this French team could be going places in this World Cup.

France's next match: Saturday vs. Colombia 1pm ET.

England's next match: Saturday vs. Mexico 4pm ET.

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About the author
Talar Kahwajian
Current Communication Arts at Framingham State University in Framingham, MA. Aspiring sports broadcaster.