England vs France – A Fierce Start to Euro 2025 at Letzigrund
What a way to kick off Group D in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025—England, the reigning champions, squaring off against a powerful and unpredictable French side. The atmosphere is buzzing at Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich, with fans from both nations filling the stands, bringing passion, pride, and sky-high expectations.
England, coming into this tournament with the weight of history and the pressure of defending their crown, opened their campaign with star forward Lauren James back in the starting lineup. After recovering from injury, her inclusion is not just a tactical choice but a statement. Sarina Wiegman has been clear—James brings that creative spark, that difference-making quality, that could be the edge England needs. Having impressed in her cameo against Jamaica with an assist, tonight she steps in as the number 10, a role demanding vision, flair, and composure.
There’s also a milestone worth noting—Alex Greenwood earns her 100th cap, a testament to her leadership and resilience. Alongside her, Jess Carter starts at left-back, another solid pick by Wiegman, reinforcing a backline that will have its hands full dealing with France’s electric forwards, especially Kadidiatou Diani and the versatile Sandy Baltimore.
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France, on the other hand, enters this clash as somewhat of an underdog—a rare position for them. With their squad hit by the absence of iconic defender Wendie Renard and the injury to Griedge Mbock, questions loom large over their defensive solidity. Even the French media aren’t exactly brimming with optimism, noting a lack of the usual hype and belief surrounding the team. But that might play in their favour—less pressure, more freedom.
French journalist Julien Laurens mentioned this could be a blessing in disguise, and it’s true—being overlooked sometimes unlocks performances filled with grit and purpose. Their midfield remains technically sharp, and if they can connect effectively to the front line, England’s defense will need to stay sharp.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. With the Netherlands already making a strong statement in the group by beating Wales 3-0, both England and France are desperate for all three points tonight. A draw might feel like a fair result historically—no reigning champion has ever lost their opening match in the Euros—but that won’t satisfy either camp.
The stories off the pitch add even more heart to the game. Fans like Chris and Lisa from Oldham, who’ve travelled to Switzerland despite personal hardships and deep losses, remind us that this isn’t just football. It’s family, it’s healing, it’s about creating memories that go beyond the scoreboard.
As the teams walk out, the floodlights casting long shadows on the pristine Zurich turf, you can feel the energy. England looks to start strong and prove they can go all the way once more. France, meanwhile, carries the hunger of a side that’s always been close, yet never quite the bride at this tournament.
One thing’s certain—we’re in for a passionate, high-stakes, emotionally charged battle tonight.
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