France set to rest stars for Páirc Uí Chaoimh clash with Ireland

Marie-Antoinette Katoto of France shoots to score her side's first goal during the UEFA Women's European Championship qualifying group A against Ireland at Stade Saint-Symphorien in Metz. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Hervé Renard is set to hand Ireland a boost in their final Euro qualifier at Pairc Uí Chaoímh by resting a rump of France stars.

Les Bleues secured their place at next year’s finals in Switzerland by beating Sweden on Friday.

By contrast, Ireland have lost all five matches and a point would boost their chances of sealing a seeding in Friday’s draw for the playoffs.

Victory at the Cork venue would guarantee the French top spot in the four-team pool but Renard is also mindful of the upcoming Paris Olympics – a tournament marking the conclusion of his reign.

The hosts open their quest for gold in nine days later against Colombia, meaning rotation is in the coach’s mind. Marie Antoinette Katoto, who scored the solitary goal during the April meeting in Metz, is likely to be spared, as will Lyon star Kadidiatou Diani.

“I think it would be a mistake to play with the handbrake on,” said the former Saudi Arabia boss, who is being linked with the vacancy in the men’s USA team.

“No matter which players will be on the field, we are here to play with pride. We’ll try to manage as best we can, even if we cannot control everything either.

“There is some playing time to give to some players, who need to play a little more.

“We will do a good mix of that. The first part will be over (the Euro qualifiers) and then we will have time to focus on the second (the Olympics) after a short break. We want to finish at the top of this qualifying group before moving on to the next part.” 

Legendary striker Eugénie Le Sommer was the only player not to partake in the Monday’s training session at the GAA venue.

“In any case, as far as the staff is concerned, we are 100% focused,” he said.

“It is an international match, televised in France and Europe. We have duties, responsibilities with this jersey.

“We are making a lot of progress, so we are continuing with what we do well. It is often that match dictates plans so it is difficult to plan. We will manage this match as best we can.”