France kicked off their FIFA U-17 World Cup™ campaign with a 3-0 victory over Burkina Faso in an entertaining clash in Jakarta.
A fine Mathis Lambourde effort put Les Bleuets in front just after half-time, before late penalties from Joan Tincres and Tidiam Gomis ensured maximum points
The impressive Ismail Bouneb created the opening goal, carrying the ball forward before slipping a pinpoint pass into Lambourde’s path. The France No9 the expertly worked the ball on to his left foot before sliding a low finish through the legs of Burkina Faso keeper Isidore Traore.
Burkina Faso were lively and spirited throughout and spurned a golden opportunity to take the lead when the Appolinaire Bougma shot wide when through on goal.
Their heads did not drop after Lambourde’s goal, either, and they threatened a leveller with a series of fast breakaways.
France finished strongly, though, and two late spot-kicks – the first calmly converted by Tincres, the second by Gomis – meant there was no way back for the African side.
Goals: Mathis Lambourde (49), Joan Tincres (pen 81), Tidiam Gomis (pen 87)
Player of the Match: Saimon Bouabre (FRA)
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