Wang Shuang penalty earns China victory over Haiti despite red card

Wang Shuang kept China’s Women’s World Cup campaign alive by converting a penalty in Friday’s 1-0 win over Haiti at Hindmarsh Stadium in Adelaide, with the Asian side showing great resolve to claim victory despite being a player short.

The Steel Roses, who have three points from two games in Group D, face England on Tuesday while Haiti, who have no points after two defeats, take on Denmark. All four sides remain with a chance of qualifying for the last 16.

China dominated possession from kick-off and almost went ahead in spectacular fashion in the 16th minute when Lou Jiahui managed to direct an acrobatic effort at goal, but the shot was tame and easily saved by Haiti goalkeeper Kerly Théus.

However, the momentum quickly shifted when Zhang Rui was shown a straight red card in the 29th minute for a reckless studs up tackle on Sherly Jeudy.

The Caribbean side made the most of their advantage, having a goal disallowed for offside just before half-time, but China defended resolutely to guard themselves from relentless waves of attacks.

Wang profile

The Haiti substitute Melchie Dumornay then drew an excellent save from Zhu Yu with a side-footed shot early in the second half, but it was China who finally broke the deadlock, after Zhang Linyan was clumsily brought down by Ruthny Mathurin.

Substitute Wang, the 2018 Asian Women’s Footballer of the Year, stepped up to convert the resulting penalty in the 74th minute and give her side the advantage.

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Haiti pushed hard in search of an equaliser and had two penalty claims denied in a frantic closing spell, but China held on for the victory.