France U20 World Cup Opener: 2-1 Win Against South Africa
The France under-20s began their World Cup campaign in Chile with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over South Africa. Dominant for long stretches but forced to chase for periods, Bernard Diomède’s side showed character, composure, and moments of quality to secure three points against the African champions.
Key moments that defined the match
France struck first through a composed finish from Anthony Bermont, the Lens forward finding the net after a rebound to put the Bleuets ahead. The lead, however, was short-lived. A foul on a South Africa attacker led to a penalty that Elyaz Zidane’s side conceded, and Jody AhShene converted to restore parity just before the break.
After the restart, the young tricolores ramped up their pressure. A wave of chances created by the efficient interplay between Bermont, Michal, and touré kept South Africa on the back foot, but the opposing keeper produced crucial saves to keep the score level.
Then, in the 80th minute, Lucas Michal finally found the target after a sustained spell of pressure. The Monaco forward’s effort, following a nifty move, found the corner and sent the French bench into relief as they reclaimed the lead late in the game.
France clung to that edge through a tense finish, with Lisandru Olmeta making a decisive save to deny a late equalizer and help seal a reassured start to the World Cup for Diomède’s squad. The final whistle confirmed a 2-1 victory, a result that sends France top of Group E for the moment and sets up a high-stakes follow-up against the United States later in the week.
First-half dynamics and tactical nuance
France started with intent, pressing high and looking to exploit the pace of Bermont and Mmadi on the flanks. Bermont’s early influence paid off with the opener, but South Africa’s resilience shone through as they weathered the pressure and exploited France’s exposed spaces at times. The 32nd-minute penalty flipped the momentum, highlighting how fragile a lead can be in a tournament where every set piece and decision matters.
Second-half surge and player impact
Come the second period, the Bleuets displayed renewed energy and better finishing. Michal, repeatedly involved in dangerous attacks, finally found the target in the 80th minute after a series of near-misses, underscoring his poise and persistence. Bermont, who had already struck the post early on, remained a constant threat, while Olmeta’s goalkeeper heroics in the closing stages preserved the win.
What this means going forward
The victory gives France a strong platform in Group E as they prepare for a crucial test against the United States on Thursday at 22:00. The Americans, described by France as potential tournament favorites, will present a stern challenge and demand a repeat level of concentration and efficiency from Diomède’s young squad. With a win in the books, the Bleuets head into the second fixture with confidence and a clear idea of what worked and what still needs sharpening.
Team notes and outlook
Key contributors included the Lens-born Bermont, whose early goal set the tone, and Lucas Michal, whose composure under pressure paid off with the late winner. In defense, Lisandru Olmeta delivered when it mattered most, especially during the closing stages. The match also provided a glimpse at the depth of France’s forward options, as Diomède rotated players and tested combinations to keep the team fresh for the demanding schedule ahead.
Upcoming fixtures
France will return to action against the United States on Thursday at 22:00, with the aim of continuing their positive start and building momentum in the group stage. The U20 World Cup in Chile remains wide open, and a strong performance against the Americans could be pivotal for France’s hopes of advancing.
