England Women 1 – 2 France Women
England have dropped out of the automatic qualification spots in their Euro 2025 group after France came from behind to beat the Lionesses 2-1 at St James’ Park.
Sarina Wiegman’s side thought they were heading top of Group A3 when Beth Mead put the hosts ahead on 30 minutes, as England recovered well from losing goalkeeper Mary Earps due to an injury picked up in the first minute.
But France used their corner expertise to turn the game on its head as Elisa De Almeida scored a stunning volley just before half-time, before Marie-Antoinette Katoto swept home as the Lionesses failed to clear another set piece.
The result means England are now five points behind first-placed France, ahead of another game with the group leaders in Saint-Etienne on Tuesday, while the Lionesses sit third behind Sweden on goal difference, after they beat the Republic of Ireland 3-0.
Marie-Antoinette Katoto celebrates scoring her winner for France
More to follow…
What’s next?
England Women travel to face France Women in the return Euro 2025 Qualifier in League A, Group 3 at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on Tuesday June 4; kick-off 8pm.
What are the other Euro 2025 qualifying dates?
June 4: France vs England, Saint-Etienne, kick-off 8pm
July 12: England vs Republic of Ireland, Norwich, kick-off 8pm
July 16: Sweden vs England, location TBC, kick-off 6pm
Play-off draw: July 19
Play-off round one (two legs): October 23-29
Play-off round two (two legs): November 27-December 3
Euro 2025 finals draw: December 16
Euro 2025 finals: July 2-27 2025 – Switzerland
