France secured their flawless record in Group E as Joan Tincres netted twice in a 3-0 triumph against the USA in Jakarta.
The victory ensures that France, undefeated in all three group stage matches, will advance to the last 16, facing Senegal. Meanwhile, the USA, finishing as group runners-up, is set to take on European champions Germany.
Joan Tincres, named the Player of the Match, showcased his prowess by scoring in the 45+2 and 82nd minutes, sealing France’s top spot in the group. Bastien Meupiyou added to the tally with a goal in the 86th minute.
A captivating first half seemed destined to end without goals, but a moment of brilliance from Mohamed-Amine Bouchenna on the left flank set up Tincres for the opener just before halftime.
Despite a golden opportunity for the USA to level the score early in the second half, France’s goalkeeper, Paul Argney, made a remarkable save, maintaining Les Bleuets’ clean sheet record in the tournament.
Even with the USA’s persistent efforts to find an equalizer, France remained resilient and secured maximum points as Tincres completed his brace and Meupiyou headed in the third goal.
Adding to the USA’s woes, Tyler Hall received a red card for a last-man foul, ruling him out of the Round of 16 clash with Germany. Paulo Rudisill and Noahkai Banks will also miss the match due to an accumulation of yellow cards.
