Houston Dash forward Janine Beckie wasted no time getting to work in her Olympic debut, scoring 20 seconds into the match for the fastest goal in Olympic history as Canada defeated Australia 2-0 in the Group F opener.
Cristine Sinclair picked off a weak pass on the Matilda's backline and provided a cross for Beckie along the six yard box for an emphatic finish. Canada were put in a tight spot 20 minutes in though, as defender Shelina Zadorsky was shown a straight red card for denying Michelle Heyman an obvious goal scoring opportunity.
Beckie had an opportunity in the second half to double the lead with a penalty kick, but her low effort was saved by Dash teammate Lydia Williams.
Canada would secure a second goal in the 80th minute, as Sinclair raced past the Australian defense. Jessie Fleming sent a long ball to the halfway line and Sinclair touched the ball around Williams, who had charged off her line, and had an open net to score.
Dash defender Allysha Chapman also received playing time, entering the match as a halftime substitute.
Canada (1-0-0, 3 points) continues group play on Saturday against Zimbabwe. Australia (0-1-0, 0 points), meanwhile, takes on Germany on the same date.
Beckie, Chapman and Williams return to BBVA Compass Stadium in September as the Dash return to NWSL action after the Olympic Games. A special Club and Country pack is available at HoustonDashSoccer.com/Tickets.
