The defending champions begin their Euro 2025 campaign against fellow-heavyweights France in a blockbuster Group D clash. Both sides' lead-up to the tournament has been far from smooth. England were rocked by the double-blow of Mary Earps' retirement and Millie Bright's decision to pull out of selection.

The Lionesses, however, thought they had taken the lead inside 16 minutes at the Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich, only for Alessia Russo’s goal to be disallowed for a marginal offside ruling on Beth Mead. It was a decision England’s head coach described as a “huge surprise” — so what exactly happened, and why didn’t the goal stand?

England's bid to defend their Euros title took a major hit, as France outclassed the Lionesses on a night where the midfield battle proved decisive.

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

The marquee matchup, which France won 2-1, drew 690,000 viewers, a 329% spike from the previous group stage average.

The defending European champions will open their tournament with a daunting match against a highly talented French team.

ZURICH (AP) — England has never lost its first two matches at the Women’s European Championship. If that changes on Wednesday, the defending champion could very well be out of Euro 2025.

Stanway said England want to move on and said the Lionesses have to be ‘brave’ as they prepare for a must-win clash with Netherlands