The 2024 Olympic women’s football tournament kicked off on Thursday, with reigning World Cup holders Spain and record four-time gold medalists USA securing wins in their opening matches.
Spain, making their Olympic debut, came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 in Group C, thanks to a goal and an assist from Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati. Mariona Caldentey scored the winner in the 74th minute, securing a hard-fought victory for the Spanish side.
In Group A, the USA comfortably defeated Zambia 3-0, with Mallory Swanson scoring a brace and Trinity Rodman adding a third. The Americans dominated the match, but should have won by a greater margin, having hit the woodwork twice and having a player sent off before the break.
Hosts France survived a scare to beat Colombia 3-2 in Lyon, while Germany outclassed Australia 3-0 in Marseille. Canada, meanwhile, shrugged off a spying scandal to claim a 2-1 win over New Zealand in Saint-Etienne.
With 12 teams split into three groups of four, there is margin for error, as the two best third-placed sides will advance to the quarter-finals. This provides some comfort for Japan, silver medalists at London 2012, who fell behind against Spain but can still progress.
The tournament continues on Sunday, with Spain facing Brazil, the USA taking on Germany, and France meeting Canada.
