France overcome Netherlands scare with 6-minute spree as Les Bleues produced a powerful comeback to secure a 5-2 win and book their place in the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 quarter-finals. Despite an early setback, France showcased their attacking strength, reminding everyone why they are considered tournament favourites.
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Strong Start Before Dutch Equaliser
France began the match confidently, taking the lead in the 22nd minute through Sandie Toletti. However, the Netherlands, needing a win to progress, responded quickly as Victoria Pelova curled in a lovely equaliser just four minutes later, levelling the match at 1-1.
A Shock for France Before Half-Time
The Dutch took the lead before the break when Selma Bacha accidentally deflected the ball into her own net, putting France under real pressure and changing the momentum of the game just before the interval.
France’s Stunning Second-Half Response
Coming out for the second half, France looked determined to set things right. Marie-Antoinette Katoto equalised in the 61st minute, giving France renewed hope. Just three minutes later, Delphine Cascarino produced a brilliant strike from the top of the box to put France ahead once more.
A Six-Minute Scoring Burst
France’s momentum continued as they scored again within six minutes, with Cascarino finding the bottom corner after a Katoto effort had hit both posts, making it 4-2 and leaving the Netherlands stunned.
Sealing the Win in Style
In injury time, France were awarded a penalty, and Sakina Karchaoui calmly converted from the spot to seal a commanding 5-2 victory. This result sees France top Group D with a perfect record, setting up an exciting quarter-final clash with Germany.
Heartbreak for the Netherlands
The defeat means the Netherlands, champions in 2017, are eliminated at the group stage for only the second time, despite showing moments of quality. France, on the other hand, demonstrated their ability to respond under pressure and will take plenty of confidence into the knockout stages.
