The French women's national team will compete in the 2027 World Cup in Brazil! Les Bleues secured their place on Tuesday evening in Grenoble by defeating Ireland 1-0 in the final match of the European qualifiers. This victory allowed France to finish top of Group A2. This first-place finish was crucial, guaranteeing direct entry to the final tournament without the need for playoffs.
Malard scores the World Cup goal
The only goal of the match came from Melvine Malard. In the 40th minute, the French striker broke the deadlock and gave Les Bleues the lead before halftime. That goal proved enough. In a tight match, where Ireland also had a chance to secure their future, France converted their period of dominance into a decisive advantage. Malard's goal sent Les Bleues to Brazil.
A tense evening in Grenoble
France did not have an easy end to the match. After taking the lead in the first half, Laurent Bonadei's players had to manage a much more difficult second half. Thiniba Samoura first received a yellow card in the 60th minute. She was then sent off in the 72nd minute after receiving a second yellow. Reduced to ten men, Les Bleues had to defend their lead for more than twenty minutes.
Picaud saves the French team
Constance Picaud played a pivotal role in this victory. The French goalkeeper was decisive in the second half, when Ireland were pushing for an equalizer. In the 78th minute, she notably saved a shot from Abbie Larkin in the penalty area. A few minutes later, she came far out of her goal to intercept a dangerous Irish through ball. Her performance allowed France to maintain their lead until the final whistle.
Ireland will have to go through the playoffs.
Ireland arrived in Grenoble with a chance of direct qualification. A victory would have allowed them to overtake France in the standings. The defeat changed their fate. Carla Ward's players finished third in Group A2, behind France and the Netherlands. They will have to go through the playoffs to try and reach the 2027 World Cup.
France finished first in the group
France finished their qualifying campaign with 13 points from six matches. Les Bleues finished ahead of the Netherlands, second with 11 points, and Ireland, third with 9 points. Poland finished last with 1 point. France's record was solid: four wins, one draw, one loss, eleven goals scored and five conceded.
With this qualification, the French women will compete in their fifth consecutive World Cup, after 2011, 2015, 2019 and 2023.
