World Cup Gameweek 1
Jun 16, 2018 11.00am
2
1
HT : 0 0
FT Kazan Arena
  • Antoine Griezmann 58' goal
  • Aziz Behich 80' goal
  • goal Mile Jedinak 62'

Bert van Marwijk "proud but disappointed" after Australia defeat by France

Van Marwijk "proud" of Australia

Australia head coach Bert van Marwijk has declared himself "proud but disappointed" after his side lost 2-1 to France in their opening World Cup game.

Antoine Griezmann opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 58 minutes following a controversial VAR-assisted decision, but Mile Jedinak drew level with a spot kick of his own four minutes later.

The Socceroos looked on course to hold one of the pre-tournament favourites until Paul Pogba's lobbed effort deflected off Australia full-back Aziz Behich and the crossbar to edge over the goalline.

"I'm proud but disappointed. I think we gave a very good performance," Van Marwijk told reporters after the game.

"No-one expected we could play like this against France but I think there were a lot of moments when they didn't know what to do anymore so that's a big compliment for us.

"The way we wanted to play, they did it for 95% (of the game) so I can't blame any players, I can only give them compliments. At least we deserved a draw."

Peru face Denmark in Saturday's other Group C match from 5pm BST.

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