In a friendly match on Sunday, France and Canada played out a 0-0 draw as they wrapped up their preparations for Euro 2024 and the Copa America. Despite both teams creating chances throughout the game, neither was able to find the back of the net. The match provided valuable playing time for both sides ahead of their respective tournaments.
France, a favorite to win the European title, threatened to take the lead in the first half. Players like N’Golo Kante and Marcus Thuram had their attempts saved by goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau. Despite the addition of star striker Kylian Mbappé in the second half, France could not break the deadlock. The match marked the last appearance on home soil for Olivier Giroud, France’s record scorer, who received a standing ovation after announcing his international retirement.
Manager Didier Deschamps acknowledged the intensity of the match against Canada, stating, “We were up against some good opposition with a lot of intensity.” Deschamps expressed the importance of giving playing time to the entire squad in the friendly matches leading up to the tournament. While the 0-0 draw was not the ideal result, Deschamps emphasized the need to make the most of the experience in preparation for their tournament opener.
France will begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Austria before taking on the Netherlands and Poland in subsequent matches. The team aims to build on their recent victories and strong performances leading up to the tournament kick-off. Meanwhile, Canada, led by new coach Jesse Marsch, will face tough competition in the Copa America, starting with a match against Argentina and followed by games against Peru and Chile.
The friendly between France and Canada provided a valuable opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and test their players ahead of the upcoming tournaments. While the match ended in a draw, the experience gained by both sides will prove beneficial as they face stronger competition in the Euro 2024 and the Copa America.