While the grand final may capture the headlines, the battle for third place in the UEFA Nations League offers its own compelling narrative of pride, resilience, and the desire to end a campaign on a high. At the Stade Auguste-Delaune in Reims, two titans of European women’s football, France and Sweden, will lock horns for the bronze medal. For Laurent Bonadei, France, who stormed through their group with a perfect record, anything less than a victory on home soil will feel like a disappointment. For Sweden, an unbeaten but less dominant group stage campaign has led them to this point, where they have a chance to prove their mettle against one of the continent’s most in-form sides.
Head-to-Head: A Rivalry Renewed
These two nations are no strangers to high-stakes encounters. While their history is storied, recent meetings have tilted decisively in favour of Les Bleues, who secured back-to-back wins in the 2025 European Championship qualifiers earlier this year. However, Sweden’s comprehensive 3-0 victory in a 2022 friendly serves as a stark reminder of the quality they possess.
| Date | Competition | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 12 Jul 2024 | UEFA Championship Qualification | |
| 09 Apr 2024 | UEFA Championship Qualification | Sweden W 0-1 France W |
| 11 Oct 2022 | Friendly | |
| 16 Jul 2011 | World Cup – Women |
Form Guide
France’s path to the Nations League finals was nothing short of breathtaking. They navigated Group A2 with a flawless record, winning all six of their matches to accumulate a perfect 18 points. Scoring 14 goals and conceding just two, they laid down a serious marker as one of the tournament favourites, blending defensive solidity with attacking flair.
Sweden’s journey was more pragmatic. They topped a competitive Group A4 without losing a game, but three draws meant they finished on 12 points. While their unbeaten status speaks to their resilience and tactical discipline, their inability to turn every tight contest into a win has been a recurring theme. They are a difficult side to break down, but they face a French team that has made a habit of finding a way through.
Ones to Watch
This match will feature a dazzling array of talent on both sides of the ball. For France, the attacking prowess of forwards like Kadidiatou Diani and Melvine Malard will be crucial. Their pace, power, and clinical finishing can unpick any defence. In the heart of the backline, the experience and aerial dominance of Selma Bacha provide the foundation upon which their attacking football is built.
Sweden will look to their own established stars to make the difference. Arsenal striker Stina Blackstenius is a constant threat with her intelligent movement and predatory instincts in the box. She’ll be supported by the world-class talent of Barcelona’s Fridolina Rolfö, whose versatility allows her to influence the game from multiple positions, and the creative engine Kosovare Asllani, who pulls the strings in midfield.
Prediction
This promises to be a tightly contested affair between two of the world’s elite. Sweden’s defensive organisation and unbeaten record in the group stage show they will not be easily overcome. However, France’s scintillating form, coupled with the advantage of playing in front of a home crowd, gives them a significant edge. Their recent head-to-head victories will also provide a psychological boost.
Prediction: France 2-0 Sweden
