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Toletti rueful as England keep France at bay

Playmaker Sandie Toletti did not hide her disappointment as she reflected on France's failure to beat England, twice hitting the woodwork and squandering a second-half penalty.

France playmaker Sandie Toletti vies with Paige Williams of England
France playmaker Sandie Toletti vies with Paige Williams of England ©Sportsfile

France playmaker Sandie Toletti did not hide her disappointment as she reflected on her side's opening-day draw with England.

Les Bleuettes enjoyed the lion's share of possession – and the chances – in the UEFA European Women's Under-19 Championship Group A opener. Léa Declercq had a second-half penalty saved while twice the England woodwork was rattled, the second from a wonderfully executed Toletti lob, but France just could not find a way through.

"We had opportunities but could not put them into the net so we have a few regrets," said the 18-year-old. "England have a very physical team. We are going to train hard to improve our physical strength, then we will see against Denmark and Wales. I think those teams will rely on their physical strength so we will have to be able to respond."

First up is Denmark on Thursday, with the Danes eager for a win that could take them through with a game to spare. This France team, though, are used to winning – Toletti and Declercq are among the players promoted from the squad that captured the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in October.

"It is a European championship and we are delighted to play it," said Toletti. "It is an immense opportunity and a massive experience. We want to make the most of it."

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