Reigning champions France were pushed early but shifted gears after the break, pulling away from Austria for a convincing 29:17 win that extended their unbeaten streak at Germany/Netherlands 2025.

Main Round, Group III
France vs Austria 29:17 (14:12)

Austria had a blistering start against the defending champions, staying in front for 20 minutes and surprising France with their intensity. Boosted by Lena Ivancok’s outstanding 57% save rate, Austria built a three-goal lead and held France to an uncharacteristic 27% attacking efficiency. Sébastien Gardillou called an early time-out, aware that this opening wasn’t a true reflection of France’s capabilities.

But Austria’s strong start fuelled their fighting spirit. They gave everything to keep France from closing the gap, but there is only so long you can hold off the title holders. Even though France’s finishing remained below their usual standard, they slowly found their rhythm again.

Floraine André, after a slow start, began shining between the posts and climbed to 43% saves by half-time, allowing her team to score through fast transitions and take their first lead in the 21st minute. Their biggest advantage was only two goals, but it was enough for France to carry that same gap into the break at 14:12.

France had a fiery restart, sparking a 3:0 run and stretching the gap to 17:12. Their 5-1 defence caused serious problems for Austria, who were left scoreless for eight minutes. And although France still weren’t at their usual attacking efficiency, Austria’s drop to 34% opened the space for new runs that ultimately decided the match.

Midway through the second half, France delivered another blow - a 5:0 unanswered run to make it 23:15 - with the entire squad getting minutes on court. Hatadou Sako, who came in between the posts, added several saves to keep Austria at bay. As the match entered its final ten minutes, Austria continued to struggle with converting their chances, and by the 53rd minute, they had scored only four goals in the second half. Their fading energy became more obvious by the minute.

France hit the double-digit lead moments later when Marie Sajka netted her third of the day, eventually sealing a 12-goal win (29:17). Eight players were joint top scorers for France, each scoring three goals. For Austria, Ines Ivančok-Šoltić took most of the responsibility, finishing with five goals.

France remain unbeaten at Germany/Netherlands 2025 and sit atop the standings with six points, leaving their quarter-final door wide open. In the next round, they will look to continue their winning path against Argentina, while Austria aim to rebound against Tunisia.

hummel Player of the Match: Hatadou Sako (France)