London Olympics football: Late strike gives Canada bronze

London: A stoppage-time goal from Diana Matheson gave Canada their first Olympic women`s football medal with a 1-0 victory over France in Thursday`s bronze medal match here.

The outcome was cruel for France, who had dominated the game until that point and missed a string of excellent chances. Matheson struck with 30 seconds left of the match after a teammate`s shot fell to her on the rebound. At the beginning of the second half, France`s Louisa Necib picked up the ball near the penalty spot but saw her shot saved by Canada goalkeeper Carmelina Moscato. France rained down shots on the Canadian goal in the second half, hitting the post twice through forwards Gaetane Thiney and Elodie Thiomis before Canadian midfielder Desiree Scott saved her team with a goalline clearance. The gold medal match takes place later Thursday between reigning champion the United States and Japan. IANS