For years, the quarter-finals have been the stumbling block for France’s women’s national team in major tournaments. But as Les Bleues prepare to face Germany at EURO 2025 in Basel, there’s a different energy in the air. A fresh generation, a new coaching vision, and a remarkable winning streak suggest this could be the moment France finally smashes through the so-called “glass ceiling.”
France’s Quarter-Final Curse: A History of Heartbreak
France has developed an unfortunate pattern at major tournaments, repeatedly falling short at the quarter-final stage. Since their semi-final loss to Germany at EURO 2022, Les Bleues have faced two more quarter-final exits—at the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games. That makes eight times the French have been eliminated at this stage, reinforcing a mental and competitive barrier that has lingered for over a decade.
This reputation has made the term “glass ceiling” synonymous with their performances in knockout rounds—a painful reminder of potential unfulfilled.
Bonadei’s Quiet Revolution and Changing Mindset
Unlike his predecessors, head coach Laurent Bonadei didn’t enter EURO 2025 with loud promises or predefined objectives. Instead, he focused on building a long-term project. “Milestones,” not ceilings, have become his preferred metaphor. With France outside the FIFA top 10 heading into the tournament, expectations were tempered—but internally, belief never wavered.
After topping the tournament’s “group of death” with three straight wins, extending their overall winning streak to 11 matches, France has reignited hopes and ambitions. “This group has progressed a little faster than I imagined,” Bonadei admitted. “It’s given us greater ambition.”
A Confident and Hungry Squad
Key players have made it clear: anything less than a semi-final appearance would be a disappointment. Midfielder Sandie Toletti was direct, saying, “Yes, getting knocked out in the quarter-finals would be a failure. We are competitors and we have ambitions.”
Defender Sakina Karchaoui emphasized the fresh dynamic within the squad. “We’re a new group with a new coaching staff. We have to remain humble, but we have to keep our determination to win,” she said.
Captain Griedge Mbock echoed that confidence, despite not starting so far this tournament: “We’re calm because we’ve worked hard. We’re on a winning streak that’s given us a lot of confidence. We’re sure of our strengths.”
Germany Stands in the Way—Again
Germany may be struggling by their own lofty standards, including a 4–1 defeat to Sweden in the group stage, but their eight European titles and history against France still make them a formidable opponent. Bonadei, while cautious, sees signs of France’s rising threat.
“If the German coach is considering a five-player defense, it suggests he’s wary of our attack,” he noted. France has averaged three goals per game over the past 10 months—an attacking force that’s hard to ignore.
Looking Beyond the Quarter-Finals
Rather than fearing another quarter-final exit, Bonadei is already preparing for what comes next. His tactical focus includes potential semi-final matchups against Switzerland or Spain, and he’s carefully managing squad rotation and match scenarios.
“Our goal is to play three matches in eight days,” he said, showing no intention of stopping short in Basel. “This team has taken another step forward.”
His calm and forward-thinking approach is resonating throughout the squad. With a renewed identity and momentum on their side, Les Bleues appear ready not just to break barriers—but to make history.
