England news: Lionesses must beat the Netherlands to keep Euro dreams alive
England began their Euro 2025 defence in far from convincing fashion, suffering a 2-1 loss to France in Zurich.
It marked the first time a reigning European champion has lost their opener, and the damage was all too clear.
Here, Sports News Blitz’s deputy content editor Nicole Powell reflects on the loss, and what the Lionesses need to address ahead of their test against the Netherlands.
England were no match for France
France’s pressing game repeatedly broke through England’s midfield, exposing defensive frailties. Keira Walsh managed a late goal, but it arrived too late to mask the deeper issues.
Now, anything less than a win against the Netherlands would likely spell the end of their title defence.
The Dutch arrive in buoyant mood, having thrashed Wales 3-0, with Vivianne Miedema notching her 100th international goal - a milestone that speaks to her class and the threat she poses.
Tactical changes
Sarina Wiegman faces tough calls. Many have suggested changes, particularly in midfield and defence.
There’s also growing consensus that Lauren James might be more effective up front, paired with quicker, sharper substitutions to react faster to in-game developments.
While the Chelsea forward was one of the few positives out of that game, the choice to start her as a No. 10 limited the Lionesses’ midfield, especially given the formation Wiegman went for.
Yet the team’s depth offers promise.
Michelle Agyemang, the 19-year-old forward, made a memorable impact on her senior debut - scoring within 41 seconds of entering a Nations League match - and she now brings hunger and boldness to the squad.
Against France, she came on as a substitute and instantly made England stronger.
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Do or die
The stakes could not be higher. A single point won’t suffice.
England must beat the Netherlands outright to stay alive, and hope France slip up against Wales.
Wednesday night in Zurich feels like a semi-final in all but name.
Can England reclaim their champion spirit and silence Miedema? Can Wiegman summon the tactical tweaks that kickstart a revival?
Their future hangs in the balance, and on Wednesday, July 9, all those questions will meet their answers.
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