The Lionesses’ campaign to defend their UEFA Women’s Euro title got off to a rocky start as they fell 2-1 to a resurgent France in Zurich, handing manager Sarina Wiegman her first group-stage tournament defeat in charge of England.
Despite a promising and aggressive opening 20 minutes at Stadion Letzigrund, England were ultimately undone by a sharper and more composed French side. Goals from Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore secured a deserved win for Les Bleues, while Keira Walsh's late consolation strike was not enough to salvage a point.
Early Promise Fizzles Out for the Lionesses
England started the match with intensity, nearly taking the lead within the first minute. Lauren James, making her return to the starting XI after three months with limited game time, fired just over the bar after a high press forced a turnover and Alessia Russo cut the ball back into her path.
Their fast-paced start looked to have paid off in the 16th minute when Russo found the back of the net, but the goal was chalked off after a controversial VAR decision for offside. Replays showed a marginal call, one that drained momentum from the English side....
