Morocco’s erratic campaign at the FIFA Women’s World Cup ended in the round of 16 as it had begun in the group stage, with a heavy defeat.
The first Arab nation to reach the finals had recovered remarkably to reach the knockout stage after opening with a 6-0 defeat to Germany. Now they fly home after a decisive 4-0 loss against a French team looking ever stronger as the tournament reaches its closing weeks.
Saturday’s quarter-finals will see France play cohosts Australia in Brisbane while Colombia, who won the day’s other tie by 1-0 against Jamaica, face England in Sydney.
Eugenie Le Sommer scored twice as France overcame Morocco. They led 3-0 at the interval with strikes from Kadidiatou Diani, the outstanding Kenza Dali and Le Sommer before the Lyon 34-year-old wrapped up the scoring 20 minutes from time.
France, a best-ever fourth in 2011, are now up among the favourites after the exits of holders United States, Germany, Brazil and Canada.
Colombia came through against Jamaica with a 51st-minute goal from captain Catalina Usme. Hence the first goal Jamaica conceded at the finals also ended their adventure in Australia and New Zealand.
Quarter-finals:
Friday: Spain v Netherlands (Wellington); Japan v Sweden (Auckland).
Saturday: Australia v France (Brisbane); England v Colombia (Sydney).
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