With a 3-0 win against Czech Republic, the team was the first to win in the semifinals to grab a spot in the final.
The last time that France won a medal in the European U17 Championships Team Event was in 2016 where they got bronze. This time, they are aiming higher. The team secured a 3-0 win against the Czech Republic, which has got them into the final where they will be meeting Russia.
A smooth win after a challenging morning
One of the stars of the event, Alex Lanier, was the one in charge of opening the semifinals for France, playing against Daniel Dvořák. The player won in straight games and later also played in the men’s doubles against Dvořák again.
Lanier and Baptiste Labarthe got another win in straight games with which they confirmed France’s place in the finals. After the qualification and still waiting to see if Russia or Denmark would be their final opponents, Lanier commented on the possibility of the Danish team not being the reigning champions for a ninth time.
- It is really great to change the team. Last time Denmark was the best, this year it is Russia or France. All the teams are good, so it is nice, Lanier said.
France advanced to semifinals after a tough encounter with Spain. The Spaniards fought back and were no easy opponents, but the French team eventually got a 3-2 win. After a challenging morning, the duo found it nice to get a smoother 3-0 win against the Czech Republic.
- I think it is very important to win the last point to play probably Russia in the final, I think the whole team is really happy to win because this morning it was so close with Spain, Lanier added.
Floriane Nurit was in charge of defending her team in women’s singles and she succeeded. The French player had to face Petra Maixnerová and despite the Czech player stepping it up in the second game, Nurit got the second win for her team. She commented on the importance of her win for the team.
- It is very important for the team. I am very happy, Nurit said.
The final is on tomorrow, and France will be facing Russia to become the new champions. Watch all matches live on www.badmintoneurope.tv