Newcastle United midfielder Aladji Bamba supplied a crucial assist as France Under-21s beat Estonia 2-0 on Tuesday, with club teammate Ewen Jaouen keeping a clean sheet.
Both Newcastle players started the European Championship qualifier in Pärnu, giving Bamba a productive opportunity following his first call-up to France’s under-21 squad.
The midfielder helped unlock Estonia’s defence before France took control of the contest.
Aladji Bamba creates France breakthrough
The French federation’s official match report credits Bamba with the assist for Steve Ngoura’s 25th-minute opener.
Jean-Mattéo Bahoya crossed from the right, with Bamba battling between two defenders inside the penalty area before working the ball to Ngoura.
The striker finished right-footed to give France the lead.
Estonia then lost Sander Tovstik to a red card three minutes later, before Bahoya added France’s second in the 68th minute.
Jaouen completed the evening without conceding as France moved closer to qualification for next summer’s tournament.
Newcastle pair gain valuable international experience
For Bamba, the assist adds a tangible contribution to an international window offering opportunities beyond his limited club involvement.
Matthias Jaissle has explained that Bamba and Bazoumana Touré are still adjusting to the demands of the Premier League.
Starting a competitive qualifier and helping create the winning goal gives the midfielder something positive to build on during that process.
Jaouen also benefits from further competitive action, with both players continuing their development while Newcastle’s domestic schedule pauses.
France next host Luxembourg on 3 October before facing Switzerland on 6 October.
