England boosted their hopes of automatic qualification for Euro 2025 with a 2-1 win over France in Saint-Etienne.
Sarina Wiegman's side were eliminated from the automatic group stage after France beat the Lionesses 2-1 at St James' Park on Friday. Sweden, who started the evening in second place in their group behind France, put the pressure on England with a 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland, but the Euro 2022 holders responded in fine style.
In England's near-perfect first half performance, Georgia Stanway's long-range piledriver gave the visitors the lead in the 21st minute, before they doubled their advantage just before half-time with Alessia Russo's header.
France failed to make any effective shots in the first half, but became more threatening after the second half. She was eventually given a lifeline when Ella Toone lost possession in the center of the pitch before Leah Williamson cut down Grace Geyoro in the penalty area.
Cardidiatou Diani made no mistake from the spot to set up a great finish at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, while England needed a big save from Hannah Hampton to deny Marie-Antoinette Katoto, who came on for the injured Mary Earps. It proved to be a great victory for the Lionesses.
As a result, England, who achieved their first victory in France in 51 years, will now decide the fate of automatic qualification themselves. The Lionesses remain third in the group on goal difference but are level on points with Sweden, who still have a game to play, and are now two points behind group leaders France with two games remaining in the campaign.
What are your future plans?
The Lionesses return to action next month when they play their final two matches of Euro 2025 qualifying. Sarina Wiegman will host the event. republic of ireland They conclude the campaign with an away game away to Carrow Road on 12 July. Sweden July 16th.
When are the other Euro 2025 qualifying dates?
July 12: England v Republic of Ireland, Norwich, 8pm kick-off
July 16: Sweden v England, venue to be determined, 6pm kick-off
Playoff Bracket: July 19
Playoffs Round 1 (Game 2): October 23-29
2nd round of playoffs (second game): November 27 – December 3
Euro 2025 final draw: December 16
Euro 2025 Final: 2-27 July 2025 – Switzerland
