France is untested but versatile

The French are in unknown territory. In the 2-decade history of the Women's World Cup, France has never before reached the semifinals. In its only previous tournament, it was knocked out in the first round.

That puts it at a disadvantage tomorrow when France has to play the two-time world champion United States in Moenchengladbach, Germany. Stage fright could be a factor.

But the French have the type of players who can do real damage - fast players such as Elodie Thomis, creative players such as Louisa Necib, combative and tireless players such as Camille Abily, and experienced players such as Sonia Bompastor.

Add it all up and the first semifinal of the day - Sweden takes on Japan in the nightcap in Frankfurt - will be no stroll along the Champs-Elysees for coach Pia Sundhage's U.S. team.

"They're a good side technically and difficult to play against," England midfielder Fara Williams said before the English team fell, 4-3 on penalty kicks, to France in the quarterfinals.

France also can score goals, with eight in the bag so far in the tournament after a 1-0 win over Nigeria, a 4-0 romp past Canada, a 4-2 loss to Germany and a 1-1 tie with England before advancing on penalties.

Marie-Laure Delie and Gaetane Thiney have each scored twice, and Abily, Thomis, Laura Georges and Elise Bussaglia also have found the back of the net.

Seven of the eight goals have been scored in the second half, meaning that the United States needs to be aware that France grows into a game, gaining strength and confidence rather than losing it. France is a patient team, awaiting its opportunity to strike.

As England coach Hope Powell put it, France "never gave up and kept at us right until the end."

Another reason for France's success - it swept through qualifying play, going 11-0-1 while scoring 53 goals and giving up only two - is that it is built around just one club team, French and European champion Olympique Lyonnais. Lyon was unbeaten and untied while winning the most recent French league title.

Of the 21 players on Les Bleus' roster, no fewer than 10 play for Lyon, and half of them usually start for France.

The Americans' wild quarterfinal win over Brazil earned the highest preliminary television rating for a Women's World Cup game since the 1999 tournament in the United States. The U.S. victory on penalty kicks Sunday drew a 2.6 overnight rating, ESPN said.