WOMEN’S SOCCERThe United States figures to get an early challenge from France in its second preliminary game. The French were in line to face the Americans in the semifinals of last year’s World Cup with six minutes to go in France’s match with Germany. France had a 1-0 lead, but a controversial hand-ball call enabled Germany to tie the score on a penalty kick. Germany then went on to win in a shootout, 5-4, delaying France’s coming-out party.
SWIMMINGThe Australians, led by the Campbell sisters Bronte and Cate, are the overwhelming favorites in the women’s 400x100-meter freestyle relay.