With 12 goals from left back Elke Josselinne Karsten, Argentina achieved 81 percent effectiveness to obtain its first victory in the World Cup against the People’s Republic of China by 34-28.
The Argentines led from start to finish and jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead as China struggled to get on the scoreboard due to saves from rival goalkeeper Marisol Carratu. China only got its first goal four minutes into the match with a goal from Yu Yuan Yuan to make it 2-1.
Argentina slowly increased their lead thanks to a combination of goals from Graciela Ayelen García and Karsten. When they led 6-4 in the middle of the first half it turned out to be the crucial moment for the Claw that changed the momentum of the game. The Chinese tried to counteract the difference but were never able to control the game.
Both teams exchanged goals during the first part of the second half. China tried to make a run and reduced it to a four-goal deficit three times, but could never get closer. The second half was led by Jin Meng Qing and Sun Meng Ying, who together scored 12 of China’s 15 goals.
Elke Karsten shot 12 of 14 from the field and was the scorer of the game, followed by her teammate Luciana Mendoza with nine goals. La Garra closed the score 34-28, sealing their first victory in group D.
Hummel Player of the Match: Graciela Ayelen García, Argentina
Photo: JHA / Yukihito Taguchi
