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

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.

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

Follow live reaction to England’s morale-boosting 4-0 victory over the Netherlands, with Lauren James scoring twice

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.

England's defence of their European title got off to a damaging start with defeat by France in their heavyweight group-stage clash in Zurich.

France will be without captain Griedge Mbock for its Women’s European Championship opener against England in Zurich.