France 2020 – Home Shirt

In Euro 2020, played in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, France entered as one of the favorites, boasting a strong squad that had won the 2018 FIFA World Cup. They were placed in the competitive “Group of Death” alongside Germany, Portugal, and Hungary. France began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 win over Germany, courtesy of an own goal by Mats Hummels. They then drew 1-1 against Hungary, with Antoine Griezmann scoring the equalizer in Budapest. The group stage concluded with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Portugal, where Karim Benzema scored twice in a highly entertaining match.

Finishing top of Group F, France advanced to the Round of 16, where they faced Switzerland in a dramatic encounter. Despite taking a 3-1 lead through goals from Benzema and Paul Pogba, France conceded twice late in the second half, pushing the match to extra time and ultimately to penalties. In the shootout, Kylian Mbappé’s decisive penalty was saved, resulting in a 5-4 victory for Switzerland and a shocking early exit for the world champions.

This campaign exposed France’s defensive frailties, especially after injuries to left-backs Lucas Hernandez and Lucas Digne, and struggles with tactical consistency. Nevertheless, individual performances, particularly from Pogba and Benzema, were highlights of an otherwise disappointing tournament for Les Bleus.