Current title holders England faced a 2-1 defeat against France in their opening match of Euro 2025 in Zurich, with Keira Walsh scoring a late goal for consolation.
Lauren James made a return to Sarina Wiegman's starting lineup, and England initially thought they had taken the lead against the 2022 semi-finalists. However, an early goal from Alessia Russo was disallowed after a VAR review.
Instead, Marie-Antoinette Katoto scored the opening goal in the 36th minute, followed by Sandy Baltimore doubling France's lead three minutes later.
England made some late substitutions which injected energy into the team, and Walsh's goal reduced the deficit in the 87th minute. However, they couldn't secure a draw.
With England men's head coach Thomas Tuchel observing from the stands, James was active early on, attempting a shot aimed at the top corner but missing the target.
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton had her first taste of major tournament action, making a solid save to deny Elisa De Almeida.
Russo believed she had scored after Lauren Hemp's saved attempt, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside call against Beth Mead in the build-up to the play.
France gained momentum, with Hampton forced into action to make a crucial save against Elisa De Almeida.
Paris St Germain's defender set up the opening goal with a precise pass to Delphine Cascarino.
Baltimore extended their lead shortly after, finding the top corner with a powerful shot despite protests from Wiegman after Russo was not awarded a foul in the build-up.
In the second half, France continued to press, with Hampton denying Grace Geyoro's attempt.
England made several substitutions to try and turn the game around, but despite Walsh pulling one back late in the game, they fell short in their comeback attempt.