The French national women's football team is widely recognized for their exceptional skill, prominent league history, and star players. In this blog, we'll introduce the stories and stars behind the French women's football team.
The French Women's Football Team
1. History
The French national women's team traces its origins back to 1919. Similar to the bans we experienced in England, they also faced decades of suspension. However, their performance remained less than ideal even after resuming in 1970s, and it was in the past decade the French team rapidly ascended to prominence.
A turning point came in 2009 during the European Championship, where the rapid development of the Division 1 Féminine provided the French team with many strong players like Camille Abily and Marie-Laure Delie. Two years later, they successfully qualified for the 2011 Women's World Cup.
From 2015 to 2019, Les Bleues (The Blue) experienced their most dominant squad. Superstars like Eugénie Le Sommer, Louisa Nécib, and Bussaglia, who have all been recipients of the UNFP Player of the Year award, made them strong contenders in both the European Cup and the World Cup. However, they never had the opportunity to lift the ultimate championship trophy in these tournaments.
Before last year's World Cup, we caught wind of this ambitious team through a viral video that took the world by storm.
2. League
As we've mentioned, the rapid rise of the French team owes much to the swift development of the Division 1 Féminine league. Over the past decade, from 2010 to 2020, France's women's football powerhouses have secured a remarkable 7 UEFA Women's Championships. They have maintained formidable strength, even in recent years, rivaling the likes of Barcelona.
Aside from Lyon's dominance, PSG, in the past two years, has been increasing the competitiveness of the league under the leadership of players like Marie Katoto and Bunny Shaw, who was with Bordeaux.
3. 2024 Olympics Stars
Just a few months later, the French team will be competing in the Olympic Games on home soil. This year, their lineup is filled with shining stars. Today, we'll introduce you to a few superstars who cannot be ignored.
- Eugénie Le Sommer
At 34 years old, the heart and soul of France, still has the opportunity to compete in the Olympic Games. Her experience is an invaluable asset to the French team.
- Marie-Antoinette Katoto
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Katoto is expected to be one of France's most relied-upon forwards this year. After a year-long absence from the field due to injury, the PSG forward is gradually regaining form.
- Grace Geyoro
Grace Geyoro is another formidable player who cannot be overlooked in the French lineup. The 26-year-old PSG captain is currently experiencing the peak of her professional career.
- Sakina Karchaoui
In the recent UEFA Women's Nations League match, Karachaoui demonstrated her excellent goal-scoring abilities as a defender. With ample defensive experience and exceptional skills, she is one of the most reliable members of the French team's defensive line.
- Kenza Dali
This midfielder, who plays for Aston Villa in the WSL, will compete with Toletti and Henry, but there is no doubt that their abilities are all worthy of a starting position.
