Seeking Second Success Against France to Finish the Year

That historic night of 28 February at La Cartuja saw the national team break a streak of 13 matches without a win against France. Not once in their previous encounters had they managed to beat them. Never. Until that pivotal, historic moment: the first final of the inaugural UEFA Women’s Nations League.

Playing at home in Spain, there was no room for error. This was the moment to shine. After 10 defeats and three draws, the team needed to conquer their “bogey team,” with the ultimate prize being lifting trophy. The determination of this squad prevailed, completely neutralising their neighbours, who had no answer to Spain’s dominance. Goals from Aitana and Mariona secured the victory in a final that also set an attendance record, with 32,657 fans witnessing Spain’s first-ever win against France from the stands.

It took 40 years, but the story finally changed. France, now ranked 10th in the FIFA rankings, is under the leadership of a new manager, Laurent Bonadei. They recently lost 1-2 to Switzerland but secured a 2-1 victory against Nigeria. The French team remains a tough opponent, especially when playing at home. Spain, led by Montse Tomé, arrive in Nice with the positive momentum of their recent 5-0 thrashing of South Korea last Friday in Cartagena.

Ending 2024 on a High Note, Spain will aim to confirm they are back in top form against France and finish 2024 with a victory over the same team they defeated to win the UEFA Women’s Nations League earlier this year. The venue for this final match of the year is the Allianz Riviera, with its spectacular design setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting game.

Looking ahead to 2025, there’s much to anticipate. February will see Spain begin their campaign in the new edition of the Nations League, facing Belgium, England, and Portugal. In the summer, the team will head to the UEFA European Championships in Switzerland, for which they have already secured qualification.