After taking the lead, the French women’s team could only manage a draw against the Netherlands on Saturday in Auxerre (1-1). As a result, they no longer control their fate in the race for direct qualification to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Despite a clear domination, they still trail the Dutch team by one point. The upcoming matches against Poland and Ireland in June will be crucial for their chances to secure the top spot in the group, which guarantees a direct ticket to the World Cup.
The draw against the Netherlands will leave a bitter taste for the French players, who may now have to go through the playoffs to qualify for their sixth World Cup. The team, led by Laurent Bonadei, had difficulties breaking down a resilient Dutch defense, especially in the absence of key players like Vivianne Miedema.
The French team’s recurring issue of conceding goals continued in this match, making it the 13th consecutive game where they allowed at least one goal. Despite some decisive saves by goalkeeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin, the team struggled defensively and failed to capitalize on their attacking opportunities.
The match saw an unexpected turn of events as Marie-Antoinette Katoto scored a crucial goal just before halftime, giving France hope. However, the Dutch team responded with a precise finish by Wieke Kaptein, ultimately securing a draw in a tightly contested game.
Overall, the French team lacked the necessary intensity and rhythm to control the game, resulting in a disappointing outcome despite their efforts to turn the tide.
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