Pogba, Griezmann help France edge Australia 2-1 after VAR controversy

France got off to a good start in their 2018 FIFA World Cup as they edged Australia 2-1 in a Group C encounter at the Kazan Stadium in Russia on Saturday.

In the game overshadowed by technology, Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann and Manchester United’s Paul Pogba emerged as goalscorers for the 1998 champions, while Mile Jedinak’s effort for Australia could not count for much.

After a goalless first half, Griezmann put France ahead from a penalty that was resulted from a controversial Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision.

But the Australians rallied back just about four minutes later, as Jedinak converted another VAR-awarded penalty to draw level.

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The third goal which happened to be the winner – initiated by Pogba, but an own goal by Aziz Behich to be precise – was awarded by goal-line technology in the 80th minute.

The VAR technology made a history in the encounter, and led to France’s victory as the Deschamps side took all 3 points against the Aussies.

Meanwhile, Australian substitute, Daniel Arzani became the youngest player to ever make a World Cup appearance for Australia (19y 163d).

Peru and Denmark will battle it out in the other Group C clash later on Saturday.

France will take on Peru in matchday two next week’s Thursday.

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