France Advances to Quarter-Finals
The French national handball team has officially secured its place in the quarter-finals of the Germany/Netherlands 2025 IHF Women's World Championship. This follows their decisive 29-17 victory over Argentina in a Main Round Group III match played on December 6, 2025, at the Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The win underscores France's strong performance in the tournament as they aim for another world title.
Match Overview and Key Moments
From the outset, France, the reigning world champions from 2023, demonstrated tactical discipline and offensive efficiency against the South American side. The French team established an early lead, going into halftime with a comfortable 14-8 advantage. Despite a period of slightly lower efficiency, France maintained control throughout the second half, preventing Argentina from closing the gap. Argentina's 17 goals marked their lowest-scoring outing in the tournament. Head coach Sébastien Gardillou utilized his squad depth, rotating players to manage energy for upcoming crucial matches.
Individual Performances and Tournament Implications
Pivot Sarah Bouktit was a standout performer for France, earning the 'Player of the Match' (MVP) award for her contributions. She was instrumental in the early stages, scoring to give France a 6:3 lead. Lucie Granier also contributed significantly to the French attack. This victory not only boosts France's confidence but also solidifies their standing in the Main Round. Their quarter-final qualification was confirmed following the match, contingent on other results in the group, which have since fallen in their favor. Argentina, after this defeat, will conclude their World Championship campaign with a match against Tunisia.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 IHF Women's World Championship, co-hosted by Germany and the Netherlands, runs from November 26 to December 14, 2025. With their quarter-final spot secured, France will now focus on preparing for the knockout stages, where they are considered one of the favorites to contend for the championship title.
6 Comments
Eugene Alta
Bouktit was phenomenal, MVP well deserved. Great team effort too!
Noir Black
It's smart for Coach Gardillou to rotate players and manage energy for the upcoming crucial matches. However, sometimes too much rotation can disrupt team chemistry or rhythm, so they'll need to find the right balance.
KittyKat
17 goals for Argentina is just sad. Where was their offense and defense?
Donatello
Securing a quarter-final spot is a great achievement and shows their consistent form throughout the tournament. Yet, the real challenge begins now, and they'll need to maintain this intensity against much tougher, top-tier teams.
Raphael
Rotating players against Argentina? Seems a bit arrogant when the game isn't over.
Bella Ciao
While France's dominance was clear and their win well-earned, Argentina fought hard to score 17 goals against such a strong defense. It's a tough result for them, but they showed resilience.