Technology Plays Major Part As France Edge ‘Unlucky’ Australia In Group C Opener

Technology finally came to the party at the ongoing Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup after it played a major role in leading France to a 2-1 win over Australia in the opening match in Group C.

It was a largely forgettable first half with the former champions largely unconvincing against the impressive Australians only for the game to burst into life after the halftime interval.

Video Assistant Referee (VAR) Technology was directly employed in Russia for the first time by the Uruguayan centre referee Andres Cunha after Griezmann was adjudged to have been brought down by Josh Risdon.

The referee had waved play on before reviewing via VAR to award the penalty which was converted by the aforementioned Atletico Madrid forward on 58 minutes.

The Socceroos hit back three minutes later through Aston Villa midfielder Mile Jedinak who tucked away from the penalty spot after Samuel Umtiti was penalised for handball.

Neither side struggled to create clear-cut openings afterwards until Manchester United star Paul Pogba broke into the Australian area with nine minutes left to score a goal that was vetoed by goal line technology.

The unlucky Australians battled to level proceedings for the second time in the match but they were kept at bay by the French team who secure victory in unimpressive manner.