On February 21, 2025, the French Women's National Team made history at the Stadium of Toulouse, securing their first official competition victory under new head coach Laurent Bonadei. With the French squad triumphing over Norway, 1-0, this match marked not only their entry but also their successful debut at this iconic venue.
A crowd of 15,024 enthusiastic fans filled the stadium, witnessing the team emerge victorious thanks to Marie-Antoinette Katoto's stunning goal. The Parisian star, who entered the match as a substitute, netted her 36th goal for Les Bleues, contributing significantly to the team's performance against their formidable Nordic rivals.
The match served as the inaugural fixture of the Women's Nations League for the French team, establishing their presence and intent to compete at high levels. Despite facing pressure, particularly during the first half, the French team demonstrated resilience. Norway seemed to have the upper hand, earning several goal-scoring opportunities and keeping the French defense alert, especially with Caroline Graham Hansen's shot ricocheting off the crossbar before halftime.
The second half saw the French squad regain composure and find their rhythm. Under Bonadei's leadership, who previously served as the assistant coach, the team switched to a balanced 4-3-3 formation. He expressed his desire to build on the momentum created during the previous years and to recreate excitement following the Olympics.
"We needed the fans' support tonight," Bonadei noted, pleased to see the crowd rally behind the players. This match not only showcased the athletes' determination but also the palpable energy among supporters eager to cheer on their national team.
Adding to the night’s noteworthy moments, Eugénie Le Sommer stepped onto the pitch, tying the record for most selections with 198 appearances, previously held by Sandrine Soubeyrand. Le Sommer’s presence was celebrated with thunderous applause, symbolizing the legacy and unity of the women's team.
The turning point of the match came shortly after the hour mark, when Griedge Mbock and Grace Geyoro began to push the French side forward. After Geyoro's attempt was saved by Norway’s goalkeeper Cecilie Fiskerstrand, Katoto showcased her opportunistic flair during the ensuing corner kick. She managed to control the ball with her body, redirecting it expertly past the keeper to break the deadlock.
After the goal, the dynamics shifted, with France asserting dominance and controlling play. The French team began to capitalize on their momentum, with Selma Bacha coming close to scoring another goal just moments before the final whistle.
Cheryl Foster, the match referee, blew the final whistle to mark the end of the thrilling contest. The victory not only gave France three valuable points but also sent a strong signal of their intent within Group 2 of the Nations League.
Reflecting on the match, both players and coach emphasized the importance of building on this momentum leading up to the Women's Euro scheduled for the summer of 2025. The team’s next challenge awaits on February 27, 2025, as they prepare to face Iceland, hoping to gather momentum from this promising start.
This evening at Toulouse has surely cemented itself as more than just another game. It stands as proof of the rising interest and commitment behind women’s football—an event where supporters, players, and the sporting community could come together to celebrate. The Marseillaise echoed loud and clear, marking not just the national anthem of France, but also the spirit of determination and ambition fueling the women’s team.