Inspired by Captain Alexandra Popp, Germany took a pilot in the Women’s World Cup, beating Morocco 6-0 at the AAMI park.

It took just 11 minutes for the two-time champions to take the lead as Popp swapped Kathrin Hendrich to catch the slumber of Morocco’s defense.

Popp’s second goal, just before 40 minutes, allowed the tournament favorites to lead comfortably into halftime and created an opportunity to further disturb the scorers in the second half.

Two own goals and one each from Klara Buhl and Lea Schuller saw the Germans outrun their North African rivals and Colombia was the next challenge.

Italy shrugged off Argentina in close competition

Playmaker Cristiana Girelli scored a header after coming out of the bench late in the second half and Italy shrugged Argentina to start their World Cup campaign with a win.

In an intense physical struggle, both sides came close to scoring from the first minutes, but were cautious enough to almost hit a stalemate on the defense.

Italy thought they had taken the lead early in the 15th minute, only Arianna Caruso’s shot was denied due to offside. Despite an improved picture during the first half, Italy had to wait until the winner came in, surviving two Argentine free kicks that nearly went to a penalty.

With the win, Italy ranks second after Sweden in goals scored in Group G. Meanwhile, Argentina must win against South Africa on Friday to keep their qualifying hopes alive.

Italian Barbara Bonansea, left, dribbles during the Women’s World Cup Group G game.