England Defeats France in Thrilling Showdown, Sets Sights on Euro 2025
In a dynamic encounter held in Saint-Etienne, England redressed their recent defeat by overpowering France with a 2-1 victory. Marking a significant step toward direct qualification for Euro 2025, the English team displayed aggression and mobility, dominating the first half against a surprisingly passive French squad.
Pauline Peyraud-Magnin struggled to fend off the relentless English attack, which saw Wendie Renard and her teammates unable to keep up with the pace. Alessia Russo, the Arsenal striker, proved to be a constant threat, scoring the second goal with a diving header and utilizing her strength and calls to disrupt the French defense.
The French team saw a glimmer of hope with the introduction of Delphine Cascarino at half-time, who injected speed and dynamism into their play. Yet, despite her efforts on the right side, the French team failed to convert chances into goals. Marie-Antoinette Katoto, who played a decisive role in the first leg, found herself stifled by the formidable English defense and missed three key opportunities that could have leveled the score.
This defeat, notably France's first since the Nations League final loss to Spain, leaves them needing to regroup before their upcoming fixtures in Sweden and Ireland in July as they aim for qualification for Euro 2025 in Switzerland.
- In an unrelated yet notable event, the French national team enjoyed a smooth train journey facilitated by the SNCF, the national railway company, showcasing a new approach to sustainable travel. This initiative was championed by Philippe Diallo, the president of the French Federation, despite initial reservations from coach Didier Deschamps. The French team traveled from Massy to Lorraine-TGV station, engaging with fans and demonstrating the feasibility of train travel for short trips. This operation was applauded by Alain Krakovitch, director of TGV-Intercités, and highlighted the environmental benefits and practicality of this travel mode.
