France will be without captain Griedge Mbock for its Women’s European Championship opener against England in Zurich.

ENGLAND Women’s Euro defence has got off to the worst possible start as the Lionesses lost to a tough France side. Katoto put the French stars ahead with a lovely strike after Alessia Russo

England’s defence of their European Championship crown got off to a difficult start as France claimed a 2-1 win in Zurich.England created the first chance in the opening minute, but Lauren James

England set a number of unwanted firsts as it began the defense of its Women’s European Championship title by losing to France on Saturday.

Lionesses stunned by Katoto goal in Women’s Euro 2025 opener - The Lionesses take on France to kick off their Euros campaign after lifting a historic title three years ago

Lauren James, who was a major doubt ahead of Sarina Wiegman’s squad selection, played her first match since April when she came on as a 63rd minute substitute in Sunday’s pre-tournament friendly — a 7-0 thrashing of Jamaica. And Wiegman said James could even start when the Lionesses kick off their title defense against France on Saturday in Zurich.

England lost 2-1 to France in their Euro 2025 opener after a limp performance in Zurich. Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore scored first-half goals as Sarina Wiegman suffered her first-ever loss at the Euros. Keira Walsh scored a late goal to raise hopes of a comeback but England struggled to force an equaliser.

European champions England start their title defence with a tough test against France at Euro 2025. The Lionesses have been placed in a tough group for the tournament in Switzerland, but will fancy themselves to make it through to the knockouts.

Spain remain favoured to win Euro 2025 after a dominant display in group play. England and France are top contenders in the odds.