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.

The Lionesses, however, thought they had taken the lead inside 16 minutes at the Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich, only for Alessia Russo’s goal to be disallowed for a marginal offside ruling on Beth Mead. It was a decision England’s head coach described as a “huge surprise” — so what exactly happened, and why didn’t the goal stand?

France begins its campaign in Group D against the reigning champions, England. France: Peyraud-Magnin, De Almeida, Lakrar, Sombath, Bacha, Jean-Francois, Geyoro, Karchaoui, Cascarino, Baltimore, Katoto. England: Hampton; Bronze, Walsh, Greenwood, Williamson, James, Stanway, Mead, Hemp, Carter, Russo.

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.

Spain remain favoured to win Euro 2025 after a dominant display in group play. England and France are top contenders in the odds.