Canada emerged victorious over France in a 2-1 match, securing the top spot in Group D at the FIFA Women’s under-17 World Cup. The game, held at the Football Academy Mohammed VI in Salé, Morocco, saw Melisa Kekic scoring the opening goal for Canada, followed by a second-half own goal by French defender Oceane Moreau Tranchant. Despite a late rally from France with Lea Morissaint scoring in the 63rd minute, Canada maintained their lead.
The Canadian team faced a setback when substitute Reed Tingley received a red card in the 86th minute for obstructing a French player during a throw-in. Tingley had earlier received a yellow card in the 64th minute for a tackle from behind.
Prior to this game, Canada had secured victories against Nigeria (4-1) and Samoa (6-0), putting them on equal points with France but ahead on goal difference. Both teams had already secured spots in the knockout round, with France needing a win to overtake Canada in the group standings.
By finishing at the top of the group, Canada avoided a Round of 16 match against Spain, the runner-up in 2024 and a two-time champion. France, on the other hand, will face Spain in the next round, while Canada will play against a third-place finisher from other groups.
Canada’s past performances at the tournament include a fourth-place finish in 2018 and quarterfinal appearances in 2008, 2012, and 2014. The match saw Canada taking the lead early on, with Kekic scoring in the 14th minute after a corner situation. Despite France outshooting Canada and having more corners, they failed to capitalize on their chances.
In the game, Canada received five yellow cards compared to France’s two. Video reviews led to two yellow cards in the first half, one each for Canada’s Naomi Lofthouse and France’s Stella Grondin. Canada’s coach made several changes to the starting lineup during the game.
Canada missed out on the 2024 FIFA U-17 tournament but qualified for previous editions. On the other hand, France, a former champion in 2102, secured their place by reaching the semifinals at the 2025 UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship. The defending champion, North Korea, has a strong track record in the tournament, having won the title three times. Spain, a four-time finalist, has clinched the championship twice.