Football / France crash out again
Once again, the French women’s football team fell short where it matters most: the quarter-finals. Against Brazil (0-1), Les Bleues suffered yet another disappointment on the big stage. This frustrating elimination adds to a long list of similar failures at this decisive stage.
Since their impressive fourth-place finish at the 2011 World Cup, the French women have repeatedly hit the same ceiling. Tournament after tournament, whether at the Euros or the World Cup, the quarter-finals remain an obstacle they can’t seem to overcome. Heartbreaking losses to Germany in 2015, the USA in 2019, and the penalty shootout defeat to Australia in 2023 have all left lasting frustration.
The Olympics have followed the same painful pattern. After reaching the semi-finals in 2012, France were knocked out in the quarters in 2016, and now again at Paris 2024. And yet, French women’s football at club level continues to shine. Olympique Lyonnais and PSG are both European powerhouses, and the D1 Arkema leads the UEFA rankings. Unfortunately, this club success has not yet translated to international triumphs.
Although consistently qualifying for major tournaments is a strength, it’s no longer enough. With seven eliminations in their last eight quarter-final appearances, France must urgently find a solution to break this cycle of frustration. The upcoming Women’s Euro 2025 will offer another chance to finally overcome this barrier and make history.
