French Lesson: Metz Crushes Esbjerg 40-26

Esbjerg fall to Metz in high-scoring clash

Metz handed Team Esbjerg a 40-26 defeat in a thrilling Champions League encounter, securing top spot in the group stage.

Henny Reistad, on the other hand, wasn't quite herself for Esbjerg, missing several chances and seeming a bit...

Team Esbjerg's mind was elsewhere as they suffered a 40-26 loss to French side Metz in a dead rubber Champions League tie.

Metz seized the opportunity, fighting for top spot in the group, while Esbjerg had already secured third. They took a 7-5 lead after 16 minutes and never looked back.

Lylou Borg, just 20 years old, was a standout performer for Metz, showing off her attacking talent and linking up nicely with Sarah Bouktit. The French duo's impact was clear as Metz pulled ahead to 11-7, and they went into halftime with a four-goal lead.

Henny Reistad, on the other hand, wasn't quite herself for Esbjerg, missing several chances and seeming a bit off her usual game. Metz capitalized on the Dane's mistakes, being more clinical in attack and continuing to widen the gap after the break.

Johanna Bundsen, Esbjerg's goalkeeper, put in a solid performance, making 15 saves and finishing with a 38% save rate.

With 10 minutes left to play, Lucie Granier scored to give Metz a double-digit lead, 31-21, and they went on to reach 40 goals, securing a convincing win.