Les Bleues snatch victory from Portugal in the Women’s Nations League

The match: 0-1

The French team, already qualified for the Final Four of the League of Nations, played extensively in Portugal. She was forced to wait for added time to achieve a fifth success in six matches in this group stage (1-0).

Without Diani, Katoto (spared), De Almeida, Henry, Le Sommer, Mbock, W. Renard (on the bench because threatened with suspension), nor Geyoro, the Blues had a little difficulty in Leiria. Durand notably saved France by winning against Capeta (16th). The second period was more interesting for the Blues, who found the post through Asseyi (see elsewhere) then missed the opening score with an incredible action: after a Malard header pushed back by the bar, Becho took the second ball… on the crossbar (90th+1). A few moments later, at the far post, the incoming Geyoro scored from close range, receiving a cross from Becho extended by Malard (90th + 4). Three strong women from this team, Becho then Malard were also close to scoring (21st, 63rd).

The turning point: the goal disallowed in Portugal

Rather interestingly, the Portuguese thought they opened the score in the 57th minute. Launched by the twirling Capeta, Tatiana Pinto shifted Encarnaçao, who beat Durand closely. But the locals saw the referee refuse this goal for a completely non-existent offside. Frustrating for Portugal.

The player: Asseyi, symbol of blue inefficiency

Small surprise from the starting eleven, Viviane Asseyi occupied the tip of the 4-3-3 aligned by Hervé Renard. But the West Ham striker did not really weigh on the opposing defense. She scored two harmless shots, into the gloves of Morais (13th, 19th). Shortly after the hour mark, the former Bordeaux player found herself at the conclusion of a movement initiated by Le Garrec and relayed by Dufour but she failed on the Portuguese post (62nd). She was immediately taken off the field and replaced by Malard.