Tactical Brilliance and Scoring Depth Shine in St. Gallen
On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, France played very well in St. Gallen, Switzerland. They beat Wales 4–1 in their second Group D match at Euro 2025. Coach Laurent Bonadei changed seven players from the team that beat England. This showed how strong and deep the French squad is.
Mateo’s Early Spark, Fishlock’s Historic Reply
France scored early. Clara Mateo scored in the 8th minute after a nice corner.
It was her second goal in the tournament. Wales answered quickly. Jess Fishlock scored five minutes later. She is 38 years and 176 days old. She became the oldest player to score in Women’s Euro history. It was also Wales’s first-ever goal in a Euro finals match.
Diani’s Penalty, Majri’s Poise, and Geyoro’s Captain’s Finish
Before halftime, France got a penalty. Mateo was fouled in the box. Kadidiatou Diani scored the penalty in the 45+1 minute. France led 2–1 at the break. In the second half, France kept control. In the 53rd minute, Amel Majri scored after a mistake by the Welsh goalkeeper. Ten minutes later, Grace Geyoro made it 4–1 with a strong finish.
Bonadei’s Rotation Masterclass: All 20 Outfield Players Used
France is using smart tactics in this tournament. Coach Bonadei has used all 20 outfield players in just two matches. This helps players stay fresh and ready.
“We are managing the group’s fitness,” Bonadei said.
“Everyone will play a part,” he added before the match with the Netherlands.
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Player Reactions and Pitch-Side Views
Amel Majri was named Player of the Match. She praised Mateo for the strong start. She said the team feels “balanced and confident.” Jess Fishlock said her goal was “a proud moment for Welsh football.” She was happy even though Wales lost. Fans and experts praised Bonadei’s smart use of the team. They said France looked strong in both attack and defense.
Group D Standings & Euro 2025 Quarter-Final Scenarios
France now has 6 points from two matches. They are top of Group D. If they draw with the Netherlands on Sunday, July 13, they go to the quarter-finals. Even if France loses, they can still advance—if the England vs. Wales result helps them. Wales has 1 point. To qualify, they must beat England and have a better goal difference.
Key Stats and Highlights
- Clara Mateo: 1 goal and won a penalty
- Diani: Scored the penalty
- Majri: Scored 1 goal and gave 2 key passes
- Geyoro: Scored a goal and led the team
- France Group D: 1st place
- Jess Fishlock: Oldest Women’s Euro goal scorer
Conclusion
France’s big 4–1 win over Wales was more than just a group stage victory.
It showed their strength, teamwork, and smart tactics. Goals from Mateo, Diani, Majri, and Geyoro prove France is ready for bigger games. They now look ahead to their next match against the Netherlands with confidence. Wales will remember Fishlock’s historic goal, but they have a hard challenge ahead.