France's Olivier Giroud celebrates scoring their fourth goal during FIFA World Cup Group D match against Australia at the Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah. REUTERS/Issei Kato
Al Wakrah: Reigning champions France opened their World Cup title defence with a 4-1 thrashing of Australia, with veteran forward Olivier Giroud producing a record show at the Al Janoub Stadium on Tuesday.
Giroud, 36, scored a goal each in both halves, equaling Thierry Henry's record as France's all-time top scorer with his second strike – goal no. 51 for the Les Bleus.
Craig Goodwin put Australia ahead in 9th minute but France ensured there are no more upsets on the day after Saudi Arabia shocked Argentina. Adrien Rabiot scored equaliser in the 27th minute with a strike from Giroud (32’) giving France a 2-1 lead at half-time.
The Didier Deschamps’ side added two more in the second half through PSG striker Kylian Mbappe (68) and Giroud (71) to seal a commanding victory.
France will face Denmark in their next Group D match while Australia will meet Tunisia. Both matches will be played on Saturday.
