The reigning champions, Canada, breathed new life into their Paris Games hopes on Sunday with a dramatic 2-1 win over France, asserting their innocence against allegations of cheating.
After being penalized six points—significantly damaging their chances of defending the Olympic title they clinched in Tokyo—it was revealed that they had employed drones to surveil their rivals. Furthermore, FIFA has imposed a one-year ban on their English coach, Bev Priestman, along with officials Joseph Lombardi and Jasmine Mander from all football-related endeavors.
Vanessa Gilles, who netted Canada’s decisive goal against France in the second half of injury time, expressed her frustration, revealing she nearly broke her hand in anger upon hearing about the points penalty. She emphasized that the players had no involvement in the drone activity.
“We’re not involved in any of this, yet we’re being punished as if we were caught doping,” she stated. “We haven’t done anything wrong. It’s exhausting to keep defending ourselves over matters we cannot control.
“We gained no advantage. We go out there, give our all, and train tirelessly throughout the year. The uncontrollable elements are what frustrate us the most.”
Jessie Fleming, who scored Canada’s opener, remarked that their challenging circumstances might strengthen the team’s unity. “It feels like us against the world right now,” she shared.
Following the points deduction, Canada currently sits third in their group with zero points, trailing Colombia and France. However, a victory over Colombia on Wednesday could see them advance to the knockout stages. Additionally, Canada is in the process of appealing the points loss.
Earlier on Sunday, Priestman issued a statement expressing her regret regarding the drone incident.
“I am profoundly saddened for the players, and I sincerely apologize for the repercussions this scenario has had on all of them,” Priestman declared. “As the team leader, I take full responsibility and will cooperate completely with the investigation.”
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She added, “I wish I could say more. However, I must hold back at this moment due to the ongoing appeals process and the investigation.”
Canada’s goalkeeper, Kailen Sheridan, expressed uncertainty about forgiving Priestman right away.
“At this moment, it’s quite challenging. It’s tough to do,” Sheridan mentioned. “In the end, she is a human, and mistakes do happen. I believe that with time, we’ll reach a point where acceptance is possible. For now, we’re maintaining our focus and not allowing external influences to disrupt our unity. This strategy seems to be working well so far, and we will continue to prove doubters wrong.”
