France beat England in Euro 2025 opener

England's campaign to defend their European title began with a significant setback, as they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat against a formidable French side in their Euro 2025 group-stage opener in Zurich. The highly anticipated clash, billed as one of the tournament's heavyweight encounters, saw Les Bleues deliver an early blow to the Lionesses' aspirations, leaving Sarina Wiegman's squad with an immediate uphill battle in Group C. The atmosphere at the Letzigrund Stadium was electric, but it was France who managed to harness that energy more effectively, securing a crucial three points and sending a clear statement of intent to the rest of the continent.

All eyes were indeed on Sarina Wiegman coming into the match, with questions lingering about her tactical approach and team selection following a mixed run of recent results. England started brightly, attempting to assert their customary dominance in midfield, but found themselves frustrated by a disciplined French defensive line and incisive counter-attacks. France took the lead midway through the first half through a clinical finish from Delphine Cascarino, catching the English defense off guard. While England managed to equalize shortly after the break via a powerful header from Leah Williamson, their momentum was short-lived. A moment of individual brilliance from Kadidiatou Diani saw France reclaim their lead in the 70th minute, a goal that ultimately proved to be the winner despite late English pressure. Wiegman's substitutions aimed to inject fresh impetus, but the French rearguard held firm, denying England any clear-cut chances in the dying minutes.