NAPOLI, 4 July – The tone was set by the opening goal after just 17 minutes, as China scored to put Mexico on the defensive. In a women’s football preliminary played in Stadio Communale di Cercola, it was Y Yan who got that first breakthrough and China held onto the lead until the very end. Mexico’s Y Barrientos then managed to pull one back for her team, equalizing in the 27thminute. China bounced right back, taking the lead once again through H Wang just before the end of the first half.
The two equally strong teams played neck and neck almost throughout and both scored again in the second half. However the one goal difference was enough for China to hold on for a 3-2 win.
After the match Wang, who scored two goals, said, “I think good psychology is the key to win every game. And we will be ready for every game.”She also added that she is nervous yet excited about being here, at her first Universiade.
Preliminary Group action continues on Saturday, 6 July.
By FISU Event Reporter Xiaohan Huo
Today’s results in women’s football:
China 3 – 2 Mexico
Korea 1 – 2 Ireland
South Africa 0 – 8 DPR of Korea
United States 1 – 2 Italy
Universiade football kicks off on a high note
NAPOLI, 3 July – Nothing says Italy like food, football and music. Spectators at Stadio San Francesco d’Assisi, in Nocera, didn’t hit the trifecta on Tuesday evening but their consolation prize – two out of three – was one they’ll remember well beyond the Napoli 2019 Universiade.
Spectacular cultural shows were staged prior to and at halftime of a women’s contest between Mexico and Russia to officially mark the start of the FISU Games football tournament.
The enthusiastic crowd was first treated to a breathtaking performance by soprano Anna Corvino and tenor Francesco Napoletano, accompanied by the orchestra of the town of Nocera, a municipality set at the foot of Monte Albino, 20 kilometres outside of Naples.
The ensemble performed the Hymn of Nocera, followed by La Traviatta Brindisi from world renowned Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi.
“It’s a great opportunity for all the performers,” said orchestra director Teresa Staiano. “It was important for us to play original music from here, music that speaks to the history of our town. It’s huge for our town to have its music exposed to the world at an international event.”
“This is an honour for me to sing at the Universiade. This is my hometown, I’m from Nocera Inferiore, and this is a big event,” added Corvino, a successful vocalist who attended the University of Salerno and now calls Bologna home. “I feel very lucky to have been chosen to perform here. I’m so happy, especially to sign for such talented young athletes.”
The orchestra paused between the two pieces for an address by the mayor of Nocera, Manlio Torquato.
“I want to thank FISU for allowing us to be part of this wonderful event. The city workers who renovated our stadium. The province of Salerno and the region of Campania, and all the people who are here tonight. We are very proud and happy to be part of the Universiade.”
Before the teams took the pitch, a marching group of four drummers and flag carriers further entertained the attendance with a colourful and lively presentation. The band was back on the field for a flamboyant halftime show.
And for football fans who couldn’t make it to Stadio San Francesco: Russia 1-0 Mexico.
Photos by Andrea Calandra
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