Les Bleues Snatch Last-Gasp Victory Over Sweden in Reims
REIMS, France – France defeated Sweden 1-0 in the first leg of their Nations league third-place playoff friday night at Stade de Reims, securing a dramatic victory with a goal in the dying moments. The win offers Les Bleues a crucial advantage heading into TuesdayS return leg in Stockholm as they aim to finish on the podium after a disappointing October setback against Germany.
This double confrontation marks the final meeting of 2025 for the French women’s team, following their semi-final defeat in the Nations League. France and Sweden have faced each other 25 times sence 1980, with Sweden holding a historical advantage of 12 wins to France’s 9, and 3 draws. However, the most recent encounter in July 2024 saw France emerge victorious with a 2-1 win.
the match saw Sandy Baltimore earn her 50th cap for France, with Elisa De Almeida poised to reach the same milestone should she enter the game.France lined up with Sombatin, Sombat, Lakrar, Mbock, Deani, Jean-François, Geyoro, Shipberry, Castle, Malard, and Balthire. Sweden’s starting eleven included Asllani and Lyon’s Nelhage.
Despite a tight first half, with a corner for Sweden early on and a foul committed by Cascarino on Sandberg, the game remained scoreless. France has a strong record at Stade de Reims, having won 3 of their previous 4 matches played there, with one draw.
The breakthrough came late in the game, delivering a thrilling finish for the home crowd and setting the stage for a tense second leg in Sweden.
