June 15, 2014: France's Karim Benzema scores his side's third goal during the group E World Cup soccer match between France and Honduras at the Estadio Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre, Brazil. (AP)
PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil – Karim Benzema scored twice and created a third that was confirmed by goal-line technology as France beat Honduras 3-0 Sunday in its first World Cup match.
Benzema first converted a penalty just before halftime after Wilson Palacios was sent off with his second yellow card for charging into the back of Paul Pogba.
With Honduras down to 10 men, France continued to dominate and Benzema created the second goal in the 48th minute — the first to be confirmed by goal-line technology at the World Cup. Benzema's shot hit the post and came back across goal before goalkeeper Noel Valladeres fumbled it over his own line. With the new technology system confirming the ball crossed the line, referee Sandro Ricci gave the goal despite Honduran protests.
Benzema scored his second in the 72nd, firing in powerfully from inside the area.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.