In an electrifying display of skill and determination, the French women's handball team triumphed over the Netherlands with a score of 31-25 in a friendly match held on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the Arena Loire in Trélazé, Maine-et-Loire. This victory marks another step forward for the team as they prepare for the upcoming Women's Handball World Championships scheduled for November 2025.
Under the guidance of coach Sébastien Gardillou, the French squad showcased their depth and resilience, even in the absence of key players like Estelle Nze Minko, Chloé Valentini, Grâce Zaadi, and Tamara Horacek, who were either rested or injured. The return of pivot Pauletta Foppa, who had missed the last gathering, provided a much-needed boost to the lineup.
From the outset, the French team demonstrated a strong defensive strategy, allowing only two goals between the 8th and 24th minutes of the game. Goalkeeper Hatadou Sako was instrumental in this defensive effort, making a remarkable 15 saves with a success rate of 52%. Her performance was pivotal in keeping the Dutch team at bay, particularly during crucial moments of the match.
As the first half drew to a close, the French team held a narrow lead of 12-10. However, the Netherlands came out strong after the break, quickly leveling the score at 12-12. This momentary lapse seemed to ignite a spark in the French players, who responded with a powerful offensive surge, outscoring their opponents 19-13 in the second half.
Méline Nocandy, Nina Dury, and Sarah Bouktit were standout performers for France, with Bouktit contributing four goals to the final tally. The collective effort from the squad not only secured the victory but also showcased the potential of the team as they head into the World Championships.
After their impressive win against the Netherlands, the French women’s team is set for a rematch on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 6 PM in Chartres. This upcoming encounter presents another opportunity for the team to solidify their strategy and build momentum as they aim for success on the international stage.
With this victory, the French team remains undefeated in 2025, having previously secured two wins against Germany during the last international week in March. The team's performance is a promising sign as they continue to refine their tactics and strengthen their roster ahead of the World Championships.
As the excitement builds for the next match against the Netherlands, fans are eager to see if the French team can replicate their success and continue their winning streak. The atmosphere in Chartres is expected to be electric as supporters rally behind their team, hoping for another thrilling performance.
In conclusion, the French women’s handball team has proven once again that they are a force to be reckoned with. With a solid blend of experience and emerging talent, they are poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming World Championships. As they prepare for their next challenge, the team looks to build on this victory and carry their momentum forward.
