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

France staked their claim to be contenders for Women's Euro 2025 by beating holders England 2-1 on Saturday and joining the Netherlands at the top of Group D. Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore netted within three minutes of each other towards the end of the first half as Les Bleues deservedly defeated England in Zurich.

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.