WOMEN'S WORLD CUP: Brazil crushes Norway, Germany advances

Brazil pulled the first upset of the 2003 Women's World Cup when it crushed 2000 Olympic champion Norway, 4-1, Wednesday at RFK Stadium.

Germany became the first team to clinch a berth in the second round when it beat Japan, 3-0.

Japan will clinch a berth in the quarterfinals with a win or tie against Canada Saturday. The Canadians beat hapless Argentina, 3-0, in the other Group C game in Columbus, Ohio, Wednesday.

France beat South Korea, 1-0, on a late Marinette Pichon goal for the Bleues' first victory in the Women's World Cup. Their task of reaching the quarterfinals is tough, though.

Brazil advances to the final eight as long as it doesn't lose to France by four or more goals. Norway is favored to take the second spot. It moves on as long as it gets as good or better a result against South Korea Saturday as France gets against Brazil. France's only realistic shot is to beat Brazil by more goals than Norway beats the winless Koreans.