England's bid to retain their European crown began on the back foot, suffering a 2-1 loss to France in a heavyweight group-stage encounter in Zurich.Coming into the match, all eyes were on Sarina

The defending champions begin their Euro 2025 campaign against fellow-heavyweights France in a blockbuster Group D clash. Both sides' lead-up to the tournament has been far from smooth. England were rocked by the double-blow of Mary Earps' retirement and Millie Bright's decision to pull out of selection.

France survived a late scare to defeat reigning champions England 2-1 in their opening match of the 2025 Women's Euros. England had the ball in the back of the net first as Alessia Russo got on the end of a rebounded save. However, following a VAR check, it was determined that there was an offside offence in the build-up to the goal.