Barbara Bonansea's brace helped Italy rally to beat Australia 2-1 in their Group C opener of FIFA Women's World Cup here on Sunday,the first win for the Azzurre in the tournament since 1999.

Italy returned to the final stage of the World Cup after two decades. Bonansea from Juventus found the back of net just 9 minutes into the game but was flagged offside.

Australia earned a penalty in the 22nd minute. Goalkeeper Laura Giuliani denied Sam Kerr's first attempt, but could do nothing to her follow-up.

Australia were caught in possession and Bonansea surged into the box to fire home 11 minutes after the break.

In the dying minute, Valentina Cernoia swung in a freekick into the box, Bonansea raised between the defenders to steer her header into the net.

In another fixture of Group C, 2007 finalists Brazil enjoyed a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Jamaica, as Cristiane completed a hat trick.

Cristiane gave Selecao the lead in the 15th minute as her twisting header looped over goalkeeper Sydney Schneider.

Brazil doubled the lead just 5 minutes after the break when Cristiane send the ball into the net from a tight angle.

Cristiane sealed the win with a brilliant free kick in the 64th minute.

Brazil rank first in group C while Italy come second on goal different.

In the final game of the evening, England squeezed past debutants Scotland 2-1 in group D. England surged into a 2-0 lead in the first half thanks to goals from Nikita Parris and Ellen White, Scotland fought back after the break and scored one, but it was too late. 

Related

Go to Forum >>0 Comment(s)