In their opening match of Euro 2025, England’s women’s football team faced a familiar plight, suffering a 2-1 defeat to France that echoed past disappointments of the men’s team. While supporters have debated whether to associate the anthem “football’s coming home” with the women’s team, the recurring narrative mirrors England’s past experiences—an encouraging start, followed by fatigue and a lack of midfield control, ultimately leading to a close loss.
This game marked a notable departure for manager Sarina Wiegman, who had been undefeated in tournament settings until this match. The team’s challenge stemmed partly from the decision to utilize Lauren James in an advanced midfield role, which, despite her early brightness, did not provide the necessary control against a strong French midfield.
Wiegman acknowledged the choice of lineup, emphasizing that decisions can have varying outcomes. “I don’t see (playing James as the No 10) as a mistake — it was a choice,” she remarked, highlighting the thin margin between victory and defeat in football. Additionally, the defensive frailties were apparent, especially at full-back, where Jess Carter struggled against France’s dynamic wingers, which added to England’s defensive woes.
Looking ahead, England must make strategic adjustments for their upcoming match against the Netherlands. The Dutch side is different, lacking the same level of attacking ferocity as France, yet they bring their own challenges. Preceding matches indicated they may not field rapid wingers, but potential threats still lurk, requiring vigilance from England’s defensive line.
Potential tactical changes could involve repositioning James to a right-sided role, utilizing her chemistry with Lucy Bronze to exploit weaknesses in the Dutch defense, all while bolstering the midfield with additional support. Wiegman faces a crucial test; the stakes are high, with the possibility of elimination looming if the team fails to secure a victory.
This upcoming match provides a vital opportunity for England to recalibrate and respond to adversity. Should they find success, it could reinvigorate their campaign and build momentum, leading to a hopeful resurgence in the competition. The hearts of fans remain invested in the Lionesses, ready to support them in this crucial clash.