France Advances, England And Sweden Miss Out On Paris 2024

With 10 changes in the starting eleven, the Bleues defeated the hosts, Portugal, in stoppage time, this Tuesday during the Women’s Nations League last group stage match.

The match: 0-1

The French team, already qualified for the Final Four of the League of Nations, applied for a full rotation in Portugal. A goal by Grace Geyoro offered Hervé Renard a fifth success in 6 matches in this group stage (1-0).

What Happened?

Without Diani and Katoto (injuries), De Almeida, Henry, Le Sommer, Mbock, W. Renard (benched as a yellow card would have led to their suspension), nor Geyoro, the Bleues had a little difficulty in Leiria. Durand notably saved France by denying Capeta (16’).

The second period was more interesting for the Bleues, who found the post through Asseyi, then missed an incredible chance to lead in minute 91: a header by Malard pushed back by the crossbar, Becho was at the second ball… which also hit the crossbar (91’).

A few moments later, at the far post, Geyoro, who was subbed in, scored from close range, receiving a cross from Becho extended by Malard (94’).

Turning Point: The Disallowed Goal For The Portuguese

Rather interestingly, the Portuguese thought they opened the score in minute 57.

Launched by the twirling Capeta, Tatiana Pinto found Encarnaçao, who beat Durand closely. But the locals saw the referee refuse this goal for a completely non-existent offside. Frustrating for Portugal.

Lack Of Inefficiency For The French Side

Surprisingly, Viviane Asseyi was the forward in Hervé Renard’s aligned 4-3-3 formation. But the West Ham striker did not weigh on the opposing defense.

She had two harmless shots, into the gloves of Morais (13’, 19’).

Shortly after the hour mark, the former Bordeaux player found herself after a movement initiated by Le Garrec and relayed by Dufour but she failed to score.

She was immediately taken off the field and replaced by Malard.

With the Olympics approaching with reduced-squads rules, did Asseyi miss out on her chance to convince the French boss?

What Happened Elsewhere?

League A – Group 2

In the group’s other match, Austria surprisingly defeated Norway 2-1.

Problems continue for the Norwegians; the team is lacking identity on the field, and link-up play is non-existent.

For such a stars-filled squad with the likes of Ada Hegerberg, Frida Maanum and Caroline Graham-Hansen, Norway shouldn’t be playing the relegating play-offs.

League A – Group 1

The Lionesses needed to top the group to offer Team GB a place at the Paris 2024 Olympics. A conflict of interest was widely discussed before the game as both England and Scotland’s players would represent Team GB in case of qualification.

However, the Lionesses were denied as the Netherlands scored two goals (90’ and 95’) in stoppage time to top the Group on goal difference.

Despite blowing Scotland away with a powerful 6-0 victory, England fell short of making the Nations League knockout stages as Team GB’s hopes of reaching next summer’s Olympic Games were ended, on a night of beautiful women’s football drama.

Scotland 0-6 England

The Netherlands 4-0 Belgium

League A – Group 3

Having secured a spot in the UEFA Women’s Nations League, Germany’s final match against Wales was no more than a formality. Alexandra Popp, Svenja Huth, Klara Buhl, and Jule Brand were in the starting eleven, but the Germans were unable to make an impact. Wales’ defense led by Gemma Evans stayed intact.

Denmark 0-1 Iceland

Wales 0-0 Germany

League A – Group 4

Sweden joins England (Team GB) as another powerhouse to miss out on the 2024 Paris football tournament. Finishing third in the group behind Spain and Italy successively, the finalists of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics will be watching from home.

Italy 3-0 Switzerland

Spain 5-3 Sweden