France arrived at Euro 2024 with high expectations, touted as one of the favorites. However, their journey to the semi-finals has been anything but smooth. While Les Bleus find themselves among the final four, their performances have sparked debate and raised questions about their ability to go all the way. This article delves into France’s Euro 2024 squad, their performance so far, and what needs to improve if they are to lift the trophy.
France’s Euro 2024 Performance: Grit Over Glamour
Didier Deschamps’ men began their Euro 2024 campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory against Austria. While a win is a win, the performance lacked the dominance expected from a team of France’s caliber. Their second outing against the Netherlands resulted in the tournament’s first goalless draw, a match where clear-cut chances were at a premium for both sides. The group stage concluded with another underwhelming draw, this time a 1-1 stalemate against Poland, a team already out of contention. Finishing second in their group meant a tougher path in the knockout stages.
This tougher path materialized immediately. In the round of 16, France faced Belgium and managed a slender 1-0 win, courtesy of a Jan Vertonghen own goal. The quarter-final against Portugal was another tense affair, ending 0-0 and requiring a penalty shootout where France prevailed. Notably, France’s goalscoring has been heavily reliant on opposition errors and penalties. No French player has yet scored from open play in the tournament; their goals have come from an Austrian own goal, a Kylian Mbappe penalty against Poland, and the Vertonghen own goal against Belgium. Three goals in five matches is a paltry return for a team boasting such attacking talent, yet they stand in the semi-finals.
Key Players in the France Euros Squad
Despite the somewhat lackluster attacking displays, the France squad is brimming with world-class talent. Kylian Mbappe, the talismanic forward, has been playing with a protective mask after suffering a broken nose in the opening game. While his presence is undoubtedly crucial, he hasn’t yet hit his usual heights. Around Mbappe, France boasts a wealth of quality. Antoine Griezmann continues to be a vital cog in midfield and attack, while Ousmane Dembele offers pace and trickery on the wings. The return of N’Golo Kante to the international stage has been a significant boost, providing his characteristic energy and ball-winning ability in midfield.
France Euro 2024 squad France Head Coach Didier Deschamps celebrates with his teammates after winning Belgium during the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between France and Belgium at Düsseldorf Arena on July 1, 2024 in Dusseldorf, Germany. (Photo by Marcio Machado/ Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Didier Deschamps, the manager, is a seasoned campaigner. Having won the World Cup as both a player and a coach, his experience is invaluable. Deschamps has instilled a sense of unity and resilience in the squad, qualities that have been evident in their hard-fought victories. However, questions remain about the tactical approach and the team’s attacking fluidity.
France Euro 2024 squad Kylian Mbappe of France celebrates during the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 match between France and Belgium at Düsseldorf Arena on July 01, 2024 in Dusseldorf, Germany. (Photo by James Baylis – AMA/2024 AMA Sports Photo Agency)
France Euro 2024 Squad List
Here is the full France Euro 2024 squad:
| No. | Player | Pos |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brice Samba | GK |
| 2 | Benjamin Pavard | DF |
| 3 | Ferland Mendy | DF |
| 4 | Dayot Upamecano | DF |
| 5 | Jules Kounde | DF |
| 6 | Eduardo Camavinga | MF |
| 7 | Antoine Griezmann | FW |
| 8 | Aurelien Tchouameni | MF |
| 9 | Olivier Giroud | FW |
| 10 | Kylian Mbappe | FW |
| 11 | Ousmane Dembele | FW |
| 12 | Randal Kolo Muani | FW |
| 13 | N’Golo Kante | MF |
| 14 | Adrien Rabiot | MF |
| 15 | Marcus Thuram | FW |
| 16 | Mike Maignan | GK |
| 17 | William Saliba | DF |
| 18 | Warren Zaire-Emery | MF |
| 19 | Youssouf Fofana | MF |
| 20 | Kingsley Coman | FW |
| 21 | Jonathan Clauss | DF |
| 22 | Theo Hernandez | DF |
| 23 | Alphonse Areola | GK |
| 24 | Ibrahima Konate | DF |
| 25 | Bradley Barcola | FW |
France Euro 2024 Fixtures and Results
| Date | Match | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| June 17 | Austria 0-1 France | Merkur Spiel-Arena, Düsseldorf |
| June 21 | Netherlands 0-0 France | Red Bull Arena, Leipzig |
| June 25 | France 1-1 Poland | Westfalenstadion, Dortmund |
| July 1 | France 1-0 Belgium | Merkur Spiel-Arena, Dusseldorf |
| July 5 | Portugal 0-0 France (3-5 pens) | Volksparkstadion, Hamburg |
| July 9 | Spain v France | Allianz Arena, Munich |
Conclusion: Finding Form for the Semis
France’s journey to the Euro 2024 semi-finals has been characterized by resilience and defensive solidity rather than attacking flair. While their progress is undeniable, their performances must improve significantly if they are to overcome Spain in the semi-final and potentially lift the trophy. The quality within the France Euros Squad is evident, but unlocking their attacking potential will be crucial in the remaining matches. Didier Deschamps faces the challenge of finding the right formula to unleash the full capabilities of his talented team as they aim for Euro 2024 glory.
