- France defeat Euro 2022 champions England 2-1 in Group D opener
- Netherlands dominate Wales 3-0; Miedema earns 100th international cap
- England face high-stakes clash with the Netherlands next in Zurich
France delivered a powerful message to the rest of Europe by stunning titleholders England with a 2-1 victory in their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 opener.
Elsewhere in Group D, the Netherlands outclassed Wales with a commanding 3-0 win, as star striker Vivianne Miedema marked her 100th international appearance.
French Flair Topples England as Miedema Hits 100 in Euro 2025 Group of Death
France’s aggressive press and creative playmaking disrupted England’s rhythm from the start. Laurent Bonadei’s tactical setup not only neutralized England’s midfield but also gave his wide players the freedom to dictate the game. Baltimore and Katoto’s goals were a reward for relentless forward pressure.
England’s performance was marked by slow transitions and a lack of cutting edge in the final third. Despite possessing experienced campaigners, the squad seemed disjointed and vulnerable to counterattacks. Their response came too late, with Walsh’s goal doing little to change the momentum.
The Netherlands looked rejuvenated, with Miedema at the heart of their attacking brilliance. Her link-up play and movement demonstrated why she remains one of the game’s most reliable forwards. Wales struggled to contain the pace and precision of the Dutch front line.
Group D now promises some of the most exciting fixtures in the tournament. England vs. Netherlands could determine more than just progression — it could reshape the narrative around the Lionesses’ reign. For France and the Netherlands, momentum is firmly on their side.
The opening weekend of Euro 2025 has reshuffled the expectations in Group D. With giants falling and records being made, the tournament is already living up to its billing.
“Adversity causes some teams to break; others to break records.” — France’s fearless performance embodies the spirit of teams ready to rewrite history.
