French National Handball Team Dominates Italy 38-28 in Pau Friendly
France's national handball team convincingly defeated Italy 38-28 in a friendly match in Pau, showcasing strong performances as they prepare for Euro 2026.
- • France defeated Italy 38-28 in a friendly in Pau on November 1, 2025.
- • Hugo Descat and Aymeric Minne each scored six goals for France.
- • Goalkeeper Charles Bolzinger made eight crucial saves in the second half.
- • Drevy Paschal debuted for France, scoring three goals.
- • France will next face Austria on January 9, 2026, ahead of Euro 2026.
Key details
The French national handball team achieved a convincing 38-28 victory over Italy in a friendly match held in Pau on November 1, 2025. This match marked France’s final game of the year before preparing for the upcoming Euro 2026 tournament scheduled from January 13 to February 6, 2026. Leading 20-16 at halftime, France expanded their lead in the second half, underpinned by key performances from Hugo Descat and Aymeric Minne, each scoring six goals. Goalkeeper Charles Bolzinger was instrumental with 8 crucial saves after the break, significantly affecting Italy's offensive efforts.
Additional contributors to France's commanding performance included Thibaud Briet and Elohim Prandi with five goals each, alongside Nedim Remili and Melvyn Richardson, who added four goals apiece. Notably, Drevy Paschal made his debut for the team, impressively netting three goals and expressing enthusiasm about playing alongside experienced teammates.
Head coach Guillaume Gille, overseeing the team since their last appearance in May against Norway during the EHF Euro Cup, guided France to maintain dominant play despite Italy’s reduced performance. Looking ahead, France will face Austria in their next match on January 9, 2026, as they continue their buildup to the continental championship.