FIFA World Cup 2018: France beat Australia as technology plays its part

Paul Pogba scored a late goal to earn France a hard-fought 2-1 win against Australia as technology played a major part in their opening World Cup Group C game on Saturday.

Midfielder Pogba, who was criticised after recent below-par performances, found the back of the net with a lob after a fine one-two with second-half substitute Olivier Giroud nine minutes from time, the effort being confirmed by goal-line technology.

Antoine Griezmann converted the first penalty to be awarded by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) at a World Cup in the 58th after being brought down by Josh Rishdon, only for Mile Jedinak to level, also with a penalty, after Samuel Umtiti handled.

Peru take on Denmark in the other Group C match at the Mordovia Arena in Saransk later on Saturday.

Full-time! Les Bleus get their @FIFAWorldCup campaign off to a winning start in Kazan! ?#FiersdetreBleus #FRAAUS pic.twitter.com/ca6lrA9exS — French Team (@FrenchTeam) June 16, 2018

???#FiersdetreBleus #FRAAUS pic.twitter.com/5OPrDJLu2o — French Team (@FrenchTeam) June 16, 2018