The France women’s national futsal team missed out on qualification for the UEFA European Women’s Futsal Championship 2027 after a 4-0 defeat against fifth-ranked Italy at the Dvorana Tri Lilije in Laško, Slovenia. Operating just three years after its inception, the French squad entered the decisive Elite Round fixture aiming for an upset against higher-ranked opponents but ultimately finished third in Group 3.
Early Breakthroughs Shape Italian Victory in Laško
Italy established control early in the fixture on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Just two minutes into the match, captain Ludovica Coppari unleashed a long-range effort that Brenda Bettioli deflected past French goalkeeper Flavie Papin. Despite Papin recording several key saves to keep her side within touching distance, the Azzurre extended their lead before halftime. Ana Sestari delivered a long ball that bypassed Léa Wioland, allowing Sara Boutimah to control and score from close range in the 16th minute. Minutes later, Renata Adamatti capitalized on a rebound after Papin blocked an Erika Ferrara strike, bringing the score to 3-0 at the break. The match was officiated by referees Mariia Myslovska from Ukraine, Ena Dulic from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Andrea Naudi from Malta, and Azra Ahmetovic from Slovenia. First-half yellow cards were issued to Fiona Bitterlin in the 4th minute and Faustine Pellegry in the 19th minute for France, alongside De Siena in the 19th minute for Italy.
Second-Half Adjustments and Final Group Standings
Trailing by three goals, France attempted to claw back into the match through sustained offensive pressure, but Italy’s defense held firm. In the 23rd minute, Coppari set up Adamatti inside the penalty area, where the forward lobed substitute goalkeeper Laura Lacoste to secure her second goal of the evening and round out the 4-0 scoreline. The result left France with three points from three matches in Group 3, following an opening 5-2 defeat to Spain and a 5-1 victory over hosts Slovenia.
Squad Reflections and Historical Context for Les Bleues
Reflecting on the match, head coach Émilie Trimoreau noted the difficulty of conceding an early goal against an experienced opponent. Trimoreau pointed out that while the team fell short of reaching the tournament in Croatia, the young program gained valuable competitive experience. Statistical records show the French team has contested 35 matches since its formation, compiling 16 victories, four draws, and 15 defeats under Trimoreau and her predecessors.
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