France defeated England 2-1 in their opening Group D match at the UEFA Women's EURO 2025, ending Sarina Wiegman's perfect record in the competition. Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore scored in the first half to give France the lead, while Keira Walsh scored a late goal for England.
The match began with high energy from England, as Lauren James, returning from a hamstring injury, had an early chance, shooting just over the bar. Alessia Russo had a goal disallowed in the 16th minute due to a tight offside call. France then grew into the game, with Sakina Karchaoui nearly scoring with a lob that landed on the side-netting. France's Delphine Cascarino's pace proved problematic for England, and she set up Katoto for the first goal in the 36th minute. Three minutes later, Baltimore extended France's lead with a fine finish.
England started the second half with attacking intent, but France remained dangerous. Hampton made a save to deny Geyoro. In the 87th minute, Keira Walsh scored from a corner to reduce the deficit. Sombath cleared a late attempt off the line from Agyemang, securing the win for France.
The loss marked Wiegman's first defeat in a major tournament outside of a final. Before this match, Wiegman had a flawless record in the Euros, winning all 12 of her previous matches across two tournaments, first with the Netherlands and then with England. It also made England the first reigning champion to lose their opening match at a Women's Euros.
France and England have a long-standing rivalry in women's football, dating back to 1973. They have faced each other 28 times, with France winning 13, England winning 5, and 9 draws. This match was their third meeting in the European Championships.
Both teams are in Group D alongside the Netherlands and Wales. The Netherlands defeated Wales 3-0 in their opening match. England will face the Netherlands in their next match, while France will play Wales.