Canada turned the tables after conceding an Olympic goal, beating Ireland 2-1 on Wednesday to top Group B of the Women’s World Cup.
In the rain at Perth’s Rectangular Stadium, Adriana Leon’s second-half goal put the Olympic champions well placed to reach the knockout stages.
The result ruled Ireland out after suffering back-to-back defeats in their first appearance at a World Cup.
It all started well for Ireland when captain Katie McCabe opened the account after four minutes with a genius: she executed a corner that surprised the Canadian goalkeeper.
Canada equalized in the fifth minute of added time in the first half as Megan Connolly’s own goal deflected Julia Gross’ cross into her own net.
The Canadians gave their all after the break and Leon scored the winning goal in the 53rd minute thanks to an assist from Sophie Schmidt.
Schmidt was one of three options offered by Canada coach Beverly Priestman for the second half, with Christine Sinclair and Shelina Zadorsky being the others.
The changes changed the course of the match. Schmidt threw a pass between the lines to serve Leon.
McCabe’s goal was Ireland’s first in the World Cup. The Irish had just lost 1-0 to tournament co-hosts Australia on their debut.
Canada, meanwhile, managed an unexpected 0-0 draw against Nigeria.
To conclude the first phase, Canada will face Australia in Melbourne on Monday, while Ireland and Nigeria will face each other in Brisbane.
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