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.

Group D action at the UEFA Women's Euro tournament begins Saturday with two exciting matchups, the second one will feature a clash between France and England.

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.