The French team continued to show impressive squad depth when defeating Colombia with a score of 3-1 in a friendly match held in Maryland (USA).
Despite coach Didier Deschamps changing the entire starting lineup compared to the previous victory over Brazil, Les Bleus still completely controlled the game and did not encounter many difficulties against the South American representative.
Colombia entered the game excitedly and took the lead in the first minutes, but lacked sharpness in finishing. Meanwhile, France proved to be more effective when taking advantage of rare opportunities.
In the 29th minute, Desire Doue broke the deadlock with a long-range shot from outside the penalty area. The ball touched the person and changed direction, causing goalkeeper Alvaro Montero to not have time to react. This was also the first goal of the 20-year-old player in the national team jersey.
Before the first half closed, the gap was doubled for France. In the 41st minute, from Maghnes Akliouche's accurate cross, Marcus Thuram jumped high to head close range, increasing the score to 2-0.
Stepping into the second half, France continued to maintain a solid game. In the 56th minute, Doue completed a double after a coherent combination on the right wing, with Thuram being the one to assist with a favorable pass for the young midfielder to finish close range.
Colombia could only find an equalizer in the 77th minute. Jaminton Campaz finished diagonally after a pass from Jefferson Lerma, bringing a consolation goal for the South American team.
The final minutes witnessed a more open game. Kylian Mbappe had a chance to put his name on the scoreboard but was blocked right on the goal line, before putting the ball into the net once, but was disallowed due to offside.
In the end, France won 3-1, thereby continuing to affirm the stability and depth of the squad before the 2026 World Cup.
