France put ghosts of last World Cup to rest

PORTO ALEGRE, Brazil (AP) – Karim Benzema scored twice and created a third that was confirmed by goal-line technology as France beat Honduras 3-0 today in their first World Cup match.
Benzema first converted a penalty just before half-time after Wilson Palacios was sent off with his second yellow card for charging into the back of Paul Pogba.
With Honduras down to ten 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.
Group E Standings
Wins Draws Losses Goals For Goals Against Points
France            1          0          0          3          0          3         
Switzerland     1          0          0          2          1          3
Ecuador           0          0          1          1          2          0
Honduras         0          0          1          0          3          0         
Schedule and Results
Sunday, June 15
Switzerland 2, Ecuador 1
France 3, Honduras 0
Friday, June 20
3 p.m.: Switzerland vs France at Arena Fonte Nova, Salvador
6 p.m.: Honduras vs Ecuador at Arena da Baixada, Curitiba
Wednesday, June 25
4 p.m.: Ecuador vs France at Estadio do Maracana, Rio de Janeiro
4 p.m.: Honduras vs Switzerland at Arena Amazonia, Manaus