Canada defeated New Zealand 2-1 in their Paris Olympics opening game despite a spying scandal that has engulfed the women’s tournament.
The scandal involved manager Bev Priestman sitting out the game, and two staff members sent home amid allegations of drone use at two Football Ferns practices.
Assistant Andy Spence acted as coach while Priestman watched the game from the team hotel. Canada Soccer has launched an independent external review, while FIFA has begun disciplinary proceedings.
Joseph Lombardi, one of the staff members sent home, was sentenced to eight months of suspended jail time, and his material was confiscated.
New Zealand coach Indiah Page Riley called the scandal “lit a fire in their bellies.” Mackenzie Barry scored the opening goal in the 13th minute, but Canada proved too strong for the women’s football minnows.
Spain beat Japan 2-1 in their Group C opener, and the Football Ferns’ next game is against Colombia on Monday.
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