Three months after the silver medal brilliantly obtained at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the French women’s basketball team returns to the court this Thursday evening (9.10pm). Les Bleues host Israel at the Palais des Sports in Caen as part of the Euro 2025 qualifiers.
Unbeaten in Group E, Jean-Aimé Toupane‘s players, who have just extended until 2028, had already won against Latvia (71-49), then against Ireland (48-100) at the end of last year. A win on Thursday could put them in a good position to qualify for the Euros. Absent from the Olympics, the Israelis suffered a narrow defeat against the Latvians (86-83), but have the opportunity to get back into the running for the European Championship.
The Olympic vice-champions will then face Latvia, this time in Riga, on Sunday 10 November 2024.
The women’s European basketball qualifying match between France and Israel will be broadcast on Thursday 7 November at 9.10pm on La Chaîne L’Équipe.
Interview: The Future of Women’s Basketball with Expert Analyst Dr. Emily Dubois
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Dubois. It’s exciting times for the French women’s basketball team as they prepare to host Israel in the Euro 2025 qualifiers. They’ve recently returned from a strong performance at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. What are your thoughts on the significance of their silver medal and how it impacts their confidence heading into this match?
Dr. Emily Dubois: Thank you for having me. The silver medal at the Olympics is a monumental achievement for the French women’s basketball team, often referred to as Les Bleues. It not only boosts their confidence but also elevates the profile of women’s basketball in France. Achievements like this inspire young athletes and draw attention to the sport, which is crucial for its growth.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely. The team is currently unbeaten in Group E after decisive victories against Latvia and Ireland. How essential is it for them to maintain this winning streak against Israel?
Dr. Emily Dubois: Maintaining an unbeaten streak is crucial, especially in the context of qualifying for the Euro 2025. A win against Israel would significantly strengthen their position in the group. The team’s previous victories showcase their competitiveness and teamwork, and continuing this momentum is key to building confidence as they face tougher opponents down the line.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of Israel, they suffered a narrow defeat to Latvia. How do you see their performance impacting the dynamics of this matchup?
Dr. Emily Dubois: Israel is undoubtedly hungry for a comeback after that close loss. They may come to this game with increased determination, aiming to regain their footing in the qualifying rounds. It’s vital for Frances’s defense to be on alert, as Israel will likely exploit any weaknesses in their game. This is a classic scenario where the underdog is often at its most dangerous.
Time.news Editor: Jean-Aimé Toupane recently extended his contract until 2028. How does stability in coaching affect a national team’s performance?
Dr. Emily Dubois: Stability at the coaching level is incredibly important. Toupane’s extension means that the team will continue to build on existing strategies and foster player development without interruption. This long-term vision allows for consistency in training, tactics, and team cohesion, which is essential for achieving success at the highest levels, such as the upcoming Euro 2025.
Time.news Editor: With the match being broadcast on La Chaîne L’Équipe, what role do you think media coverage plays in promoting women’s sports?
Dr. Emily Dubois: Media coverage is vital in promoting women’s sports. It not only increases visibility but also creates a platform for discussing the achievements and challenges faced by female athletes. Broadcasting games like this one encourages viewership, boosts sponsorship opportunities, and ultimately leads to greater investment in women’s sports. More media coverage translates to a growing audience, which can inspire the next generation of athletes.
Time.news Editor: for fans watching and supporting the French team, what can they look forward to in the upcoming matches and possibly the Euros?
Dr. Emily Dubois: Fans can look forward to an exciting display of talent as the team continues to build on their Olympic success. The upcoming matches will serve as a great indicator of their development and readiness for the Euro 2025 tournament. With a solid foundation and strong team dynamics, we can expect Les Bleues to be formidable contenders. It’s an exciting time to be a fan of women’s basketball in France!
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Dubois, for your insights. We look forward to watching the match tonight and following the journey of the French women’s basketball team towards Euro 2025 qualifications!
Dr. Emily Dubois: It’s my pleasure! Let’s cheer on Les Bleues as they aim for more success on the international stage!