(Le Mans) Wracked by injuries, the Canadian team remained on edge in their attempt to come from behind against France, ultimately losing 2-1 in a pre-season match for the Women’s World Cup.

The French, fifth in the world, took the lead in the 51st minute, when Grace Geyoro skillfully deflected a precise cross from Delphine Cascarino with her head.

This goal raised France and the approximately 14,200 spectators gathered at the Marie-Marvingt stadium. In the 64th minute, Léa le Garrec doubled their lead, taking advantage of a poor clearance from Kailen Sheridan to beat the Canadian goalkeeper out of position with a shot from outside the penalty area.

Jordyn Huitema brought Canada, who trail France in the FIFA rankings, to within one goal in the 71st minute after goalkeeper Constance Picard was unable to retain the ball, which ended up at the striker’s feet Canadian.

The Canadians then applied pressure, notably Cloé Lacasse, who came close to equalizing in the 74th on a header, but they ran out of time.

The setback is the fourth for Canada, a gold medalist at the Tokyo Games, in its last five outings.

The coach, Bev Priestman, was deprived of the services of Kadeisha Buchanan, Janine Beckie, Deanne Rose, Nichelle Prince, Desiree Scott and Quinn for this duel. Veteran centre-back Shelina Zadorsky is recovering from a virus.

These seven players have 759 caps in total.

Tuesday’s game was played exactly 100 days before the start of the World Cup, played in Australia and New Zealand. Canada will complete its preparation with two indoor matches in Australia.

The 32-team World Cup kicks off on July 20.