Hervé Renard gracefully accepted defeat in the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals and is already strategizing France’s next chance to avenge their loss to Australia. The Matildas managed to hold the fifth-ranked French team to a 0-0 draw in both regulation and extra time, eventually winning 7-6 in a penalty shootout. This victory secured Australia a place in the semi-finals for the first time, where they will face European champion England.
Despite the disappointment, Renard is already looking ahead to the future. France will be focused on hosting the Olympics next year, starting on July 26 in Paris. “Now we have to look forward,” Renard stated. “We’re organizing the Olympic Games in Paris. So, we’re awaiting for you. We’ll have our revenge!”
While France is guaranteed a spot as the host nation, Australia still needs to complete Asian qualifying. Nevertheless, the sentiment remains the same. In March, Renard took over as head coach of the French women’s team, which was facing turmoil. He successfully rebuilt the squad, bringing back players like leading scorer Eugenie Le Sommer. France topped Group F with wins over Brazil and Panama before defeating Morocco 4-0 in the round of 16.
Renard, who has coached both men’s and women’s teams, made history as the first head coach to win games at both the women’s and men’s World Cups. His upset victory with Saudi Arabia over eventual champion Argentina was a highlight of the men’s World Cup in Qatar last year. However, he admitted that facing Australia felt like taking on an entire nation, as they are co-hosting the tournament with New Zealand and have immense support from the government, football federation, and public.
Despite having opportunities throughout the game, France couldn’t find the back of the net, with Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold making crucial saves. Eventually, it came down to a penalty shootout where Australia emerged victorious. Renard praised Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold and expressed his disappointment, acknowledging that the result could have gone either way.
The Women’s World Cup has been a resounding success, with over 1.7 million tickets sold, setting a record for the tournament. Sellout crowds have been present for important matches, including two games exceeding 75,000 spectators at Sydney’s Stadium Australia. The expanded 32-team tournament has added a new level of excitement and increased the number of matches.
Now that the tournament is down to the final four teams, Australia is the only non-European team remaining. They will face their oldest sporting rival for a chance to play in the final against either Sweden or Spain. Renard, despite his disappointment, expressed his admiration for Australia and their efforts in organizing such a vibrant tournament. He wished them all the best and believes they have what it takes to win the World Cup.
Overall, Renard’s outlook is focused on the future, with the Olympics in Paris and the hope for a successful tournament in Australia and New Zealand. Despite the loss, he remains optimistic and proud of his team’s performance.
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Hasibur Rahaman is a passionate sports journalist. He covers everything from cricket to field hockey, delivering up-to-the-minute updates and in-depth analysis of sporting events, both within India and on the international stage.
