For the second meeting of this World Cup in Norway, the French, reigning Olympic champions and regulars at the high level, wanted to revive after a disappointing victory against Angola (30-29), during the first match of the World Cup. The Icelanders had the opportunity to compete against tough opposition for their second participation in the competition.
Olivier Krumbholz’s players started their game perfectly and enforced logic, quickly leading by seven goals (7-0, 8th). Chloé Valentini even did a reverse roucoulette to finish with a counter-attack.
The pivot Sarah Bouktit was valuable both in defense and in the offensive sector. The Blues returned to the locker room at the break with a ten-goal advantage (20-10) after a constant first act.
VICTOIRE ! ???????? 22 – 31 ????????
Very serious match for the BLEUES who win against Iceland ????????
Next meeting for the BLEUES, Monday at 9:00 p.m. against Slovenia ????????⚡????????#BluetProud pic.twitter.com/frAFC95dTR— French Handball Teams (@FRAHandball) December 2, 2023
The second period also went smoothly. The only downside: a success at half mast when it came to the seven meter throws. The French only converted one out of four with Icelandic goalkeeper Hafdis Renötudottir making a success of it.
The French team finally won 31-22 and qualified for the main round. Before that, the Blues will challenge Slovenia on Monday at 9 p.m.
