Having netted twice in the UEFA Women’s Nations League when France last linked up, Clara Mateo is set to spearhead Les Bleues’ attack when they kick off their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ qualifying campaign on Tuesday.
The 28-year-old forward has hit a purple patch unlike anything she has experienced before. Following an exceptional 2024/25 season, during which she received major individual honours – including being named the French top flight’s player of the season and top goalscorer, with 18 goals – the Paris FC captain has firmly established herself as one of the most prominent figures in the women’s game in her home country. Mateo has remained loyal to her club, having chosen to extend her contract until 2029, and has proven consistency and steady progression are key ingredients required for success at the highest level.
Her remarkable journey is about much more than facts and figures, and is as captivating as it is inspiring. The Nantes native, who is an engineering graduate, carved out a unique path for herself by balancing her demanding studies with her sporting career. Mateo is no stranger to World Cup football, having showcased her skills at the U-20 and senior editions in 2016 and 2023 respectively. She now intends to draw on that experience to help guide Les Bleues to glory, with the clear ambition of helping France finally win their first major international trophy.
Clara Mateo: We’re determined to hit the ground running this March. We’re well aware that constant pressure to deliver results is part and parcel of representing France. Our goal is to compete at another World Cup. Although there’s still a year to go until the tournament, I’m already thinking about it. But first, we must focus on securing our place, which will require us to overcome some tough opponents.
They’re tricky customers to play against, with some exceptional players. We’ll prepare well for these matches by taking a good look at these teams. I think the level of intensity will be high.
Yes, it was a fantastic season, both for me individually and as part of my club, Paris FC. I received several individual honours, but if I had to choose one standout moment, it would be winning the Coupe de France Feminine. It was a long time coming – we finally managed to win a trophy. Although I definitely played my part, the credit has to go to the entire team.
We have a lot of matches coming up, so it’s important to focus on my game. During these busy periods, I don’t take on much other work. Thankfully, my company is understanding. It’s more of an investment in the future. I know that when my playing career is over, I’ll have something else to move on to. When I have a bit more time on my hands, I can focus on work. I like being able to take my mind off the pitch.
Without a doubt. I know I wouldn’t have had the career I have now if I hadn’t felt secure in my professional career. I was determined to get a degree. Then I found myself in the fortunate position of being hired by a company that quickly recognised what I could bring to the table. So, I completed my training and learned the ropes. I realised early on that it was essential to prepare for what comes after my playing days are over.
I was absolutely devastated; the Olympic Games is the competition I’ve dreamt about since I was a little girl. As if that weren’t bad enough, it took place in France. I really wanted to take part. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be, so I was extremely disappointed. I took some time for myself, I questioned myself. Those close to me were supportive. I switched off for a few weeks; when I came back, I was able to do a full pre-season with Paris FC. I think it gave me the mental strength I needed to move forward again and set myself some new objectives. Looking back now, I can see that the disappointment is what spurred me on to new heights and enabled me to enjoy such a successful season last year.
I’ve taken part in two editions of the World Cup, both of which were held on the other side of the world: the U-20 Women’s World Cup in Papua New Guinea in 2016 and the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. It [the U-20 World Cup] gave us an incredible life experience as young women because we got to discover a new culture. We also gained a lot of valuable tournament experience because we made it all the way to the final [where France lost 3-1 to Korea DPR]. As for the World Cup in 2023, taking part in a major tournament is an invaluable experience in itself, even if the result wasn’t what we’d hoped for [France were beaten by Australia on penalties in the quarter-finals]. We had plenty of regrets, but we also grew in the process. I’m a firm believer that every setback provides an opportunity for learning.
It was a whirlwind of emotions. I scored some decisive goals, including the semi-final opener against Japan. Many of the girls who played alongside me at that U-20 World Cup are in the senior team today. Sometimes we reminisce about that tournament. We’d now like to build on those great moments and relive them with the senior side to go on and win that first major title.
