England, coached by Sarina Wiegman, started the European Championship in Switzerland with a defeat on Saturday. In the group of the Netherlands, the defending champion narrowly lost to France: 2-1.
In an entertaining match in Zurich, England seemed to take the lead after fifteen minutes. Alessia Russo scored on the rebound after keeper Pauline Peyraud-Magnin had not processed a shot well. But in the run-up to the goal, Beth Mead was just offside, so the goal was disallowed.
France then became stronger and deservedly took the lead. Marie-Antoinette Katoto was able to tap the ball in easily after good preparatory work by Delphine Cascarino. Shortly afterwards, France made it 2-0 via Sandy Baltimore, who shot nicely after fumbling in the English defense.
Shortly after half-time, France could have delivered the final blow via Katoto, but keeper Hannah Hampton saved with great difficulty. Keira Walsh shot a deflected corner into the ropes in the final phase, but England did not get any further. France defender Selma Bacha prevented a second English goal on the goal line in injury time.
Due to the defeat, England has to work hard in the next two group matches. The team plays against the Netherlands on Wednesday, who were too strong for Wales earlier on Saturday with 0-3. Next week Sunday, England will face Wales.
England was crowned European champion in their own country three years ago. Wiegman’s team defeated Germany in the final. France stranded in the semi-finals at that European Championship. The Netherlands were eliminated in the quarter-finals at the time.
