Agency, June 9: Winger Michael Olise scored a brilliant hat-trick as France National Football Team secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Northern Ireland National Football Team in an international friendly on Monday night, wrapping up their preparations for the FIFA World Cup.
Playing in front of their home supporters, France took the lead in the 43rd minute when Olise found the back of the net to give the hosts a 1-0 advantage heading into halftime. The Bayern Munich winger doubled France’s lead just four minutes after the restart, scoring again in the 49th minute.
Northern Ireland attempted a comeback when Patrick Kelly pulled one back in the 64th minute. However, Olise completed his hat-trick in the 75th minute, sealing a convincing 3-1 win for France.
France, who are placed in Group I of the FIFA World Cup, will begin their campaign against Senegal National Football Team on June 17.
In another international friendly played on the same night, the Netherlands National Football Team defeated the Uzbekistan National Football Team 2-1.
Cody Gakpo scored both goals for the Netherlands from the penalty spot, while Igor Sergeev netted a consolation goal for Uzbekistan.
The Netherlands, drawn in Group F, will open their World Cup campaign against Japan National Football Team on June 15. Uzbekistan, who are in Group K, are scheduled to play their opening match against Colombia on June 18.
