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.

England's bid to retain their European crown began on the back foot, suffering a 2-1 loss to France in a heavyweight group-stage encounter in Zurich.Coming into the match, all eyes were on Sarina

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.