Grace Geyoro scored a first half hat-trick as France made the perfect start to the women's European championship after beating Italy 5-1 in Group D at Rotherham's New York stadium on Sunday.
A warm evening in Yorkshire and Italy were already culprits to a 5-0 deficit at the break.
It didn’t take long for midfielder Geyoro to open the scoring, nine minutes in she was able to slot it past Guilani
Their lead was doubled just 3 minutes later. This time it would be Marie-Antoinette Katoto who would get herself on the scoresheet. She was able to get on the end of the shot, as Guilani palmed it into her path, and the Le Blues were 2-0 up.
Things went from bad to worse for the Italians, as Cascarino was able to get herself involved in the act. She powered her shot home to seal the game for the French.
Both a fourth and a fifth goal were added before the half time whistle. Both going the way of Geyoro once again. She was able to weave her way inbetween two defenders and the goalkeeper before slotting into an open net.
Euro history was made 5 minutes later, as she completed her hat trick. Toletti was able to keep her composure and picked out a cross for Geyoro, and steered her finish into the bottom corner.
Shortly after the break, Italy were down to 10 men, or at least everyone thought. Sara Gama’s red card was reverted to yellow after a high tackle. VAR took a lengthy time making their decision, but was said to be a yellow.
Italy were able to score a consolation goal, through substitute Martina Piemonte. Her looping header was unable to be stopped by Peyraud-Magnin, denying her of her clean sheet.
France turn their attention to Belgium next, while Italy take on Iceland at the Manchester City Academy Stadium.
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