Denmark took on France in the most anticipated quarterfinal. France showed class in all areas and earned a well-deserved 31–26 win. Here are three takes after the match.
Dominant performance
After their loss to the Netherlands, France were the odds underdogs heading into tonight’s quarterfinal. But the French players set the tone from the start and made it clear they were the ones heading to the semifinals. Offensively they were clinical in their execution, and defensively they managed to control Denmark for all 60 minutes. Despite the quality of the Danish side, they never managed to get close, and France showed exactly why they are one of the best nations in the world.
Bouktit
Sarah Bouktit continues to prove she is one of the absolute best. The pivot was simply unstoppable, scoring eight goals from eight attempts. France are very good and effective at finding her, and once she gets her hands on the ball, there is no stopping her. Denmark had absolutely no answer for her — and the question is whether any defense in the world can stop her.
Exciting semifinal
Now host nation Germany awaits in the semifinal, and it’s one to look forward to. France’s performance today was very impressive, and Germany have yet to face this level of quality in the tournament. But the Germans will have a packed arena behind them, and the intensity and energy they play with is tough for any team to handle, regardless of quality. Going in, it feels like it should be a tight one.