France will face England in their Women’s Euro group opener in Zurich on Saturday. Despite missing former captain Wendie Renard and record scorer Eugénie Le Sommer, the team is determined to stay united.
Coach Laurent Bonadei defended his choice to leave out the duo. He said he plans to rotate the squad throughout the tournament to help France win their first major title. Bonadei emphasized that every player in the group has a role to play.
“In my mind, all players have their chance to bring their stone to the building of this team,” Bonadei said. He added that different players will start in matches, like against Wales.
France is drawn in Group D along with England, Wales, and the Netherlands. The top two teams will advance to the knockout stage.
New captain Griege Mbock will miss the opening game due to injury. Despite this, the team’s mentality remains strong. Midfielder Sakina Karchaoui said the squad is ready to step up regardless of experience.
“We are all present for each other, building a strong team,” Karchaoui told reporters. “There is good competition, and it is up to us to show what the French team has to offer.”
France’s focus on teamwork and flexibility will be crucial as they face the defending champions, England, in this important opening match.
Iran has issued a strong warning to Western powers. It warned the U.S., U.K., and France against intervening in its conflict with Israel, escalating regional tensions.