France went into the Women’s World Cup tournament as contenders, but not necessarily as one of the favourites to win the competition. However, they have been a breath of fresh air at Canada 2015, and are slowly but surely making their way closer and closer towards the final.
As a result, I see no reason why they cannot go all the way, and lift the trophy on July 5.
Les Bleues began their campaign in Moncton against fellow European side England. Despite victory, it was a disappointing and unconvincing performance against a very defensive setup. Just the one goal separated the two teams, and it was obvious that changes were going to have to be made if France wanted to be serious threats in the competition.
The second group phase match against Colombia saw a two goal margin; unfortunately however it was not in the favour of Philippe Bergeroo’s ladies. By the time the third game against Mexico Women had arrived, there was even a possibility that the French could have been flying home if results did not go their way.
Big calls were made – star player Louisa Necib was dropped having been quiet in the opening two fixtures, and striker Marie-Laure Delie was brought into the side in an attempt to go more attacking. It worked a treat.
Delie scored within seconds, the second fastest goal in Women’s World Cup history, and France went onto win 5-0 in a very convincing style.
Tournaments are not just about what is done on the pitch, but mentally you have to have the upper hand on your opponents. France managed to overcome their difficulties in the matches against England and Colombia. The shackles were off, and teams were beginning to fear the French.
The first game of the knockout stage saw South Korea entertain them. France showed a statement of intent even before a ball was kicked. Forward-thinking players Louisa Necib, Elodie Thomis, Marie-Laure Delie and Eugenie Le Sommer all started on an explosive team sheet. The Eastern Asians were stunned.
France were two goals to the good within the opening ten minutes, and some of the build-up play was mesmerising. It was evident that that front four were more than capable of causing any teams problems in the latter rounds. Next up, the Germans.
France will go into this one with huge confidence, and will not be afraid of what is thrown at them. Can they beat them? I think they can. Le Sommer and Delie have three goals each at these finals, and will look to get in and around the penalty area like they did against Mexico and Korea. Necib’s passing has improved, but there is no end product from the player of Algerian descent. On the other hand, no team is perfect.
Arguably France’s liability so far has been goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi. Have nerves got the better of her with the world stage viewing her? A mistake against Colombia did cost her team the game but let’s hope she has one of her better days against the side ranked number one in the world, because she has the quality in her locked.
France are now 6/1 to win the Cup as all eyes turn to a potential upset on Friday.
