The Netherlands produced a memorable 2-1 victory over France in a Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifier, with Renée van Asten marking her senior debut in perfect fashion by opening the scoring for the Oranje Leeuwinnen. In a high-intensity clash featuring chances, controversy, and outstanding goalkeeping from Daphne van Domselaar, France fought back in the second half through an equaliser, but the Dutch responded quickly to regain control. A composed finish from Esmee Brugts proved decisive as the Netherlands held firm under late pressure. It is a historic result, ending an 11-year wait for victory over France in women’s international football.
An Unexpected Win
The match opened with early drama as France thought they had taken the lead when Damaris was dispossessed by Katoto, who finished clinically. However, the goal was quickly ruled out for offside, sparing the Dutch an early setback.
The Netherlands responded moments later through Pelova, who brought a ball down inside the box and struck on goal, only to send her effort over the crossbar. It was a sign of the attacking intent that would define much of their first-half play.
Against the run of pressure, it was the Netherlands who struck first. Renée van Asten marked her senior debut in perfect fashion, finishing calmly to give the Oranje Leeuwinnen a 1-0 lead and immediate momentum.
France did eventually grow into the game. A dangerous cross from Diani found Katoto at the far post, but the striker could only head over despite beating Van Asten in the air. It was a warning sign that the French were not going away.
The Netherlands went into the break 1-0 up, holding their lead despite late French pressure and with several experienced Dutch names absent from the squad.
Second Half: France turn up the pressure
The second half began with immediate intent from France, who pushed forward in search of an equaliser. That pressure paid off in the 54th minute when they levelled through an own goal from Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar.
Baltimore drove down the left under pressure from Wilms and delivered towards the near post, where the ball deflected off Van Domselaar’s foot and into the net, a cruel moment for the Dutch keeper.
France continued to dominate possession after the equaliser, forcing Van Domselaar into a series of crucial saves. She first denied Katoto from close range before producing a stunning diving stop to tip away a powerful Baltimore volley that looked destined for the top corner.
Despite being under pressure, the Netherlands regained the lead in style. Brugts was released through the French defence by Kaptein and showed composure beyond her years, calmly slotting the ball into the far corner to make it 2-1.
The Final Minutes
However, despite periods of sustained pressure, the Netherlands also had chances to put the game beyond reach. A promising move saw Grant look for Beerensteyn, but Bathy read the pass perfectly to intercept and deny a potential third goal. France responded with a chance of their own through Geyoro, who fired wide from a promising position.
As time ticked down, the Dutch showed resilience and organisation to protect their lead. Four minutes of added time were signalled, and the Netherlands held firm through the final push.
When the final whistle blew, it confirmed a landmark result: a 2-1 victory for the Netherlands and their first win over France in 11 years. Van Asten’s debut goal, Van Domselaar’s decisive saves despite misfortune, and a collective defensive effort ensured a memorable night for a young Dutch side stepping up on the international stage.
Leave a Reply