UEFA Women's EURO 2025: Netherlands and France Take Early Control in Group D
Group D action kicked off at the UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland with commanding wins for both the Netherlands and France, as the tournament began to take shape.
Netherlands made an early statement of intent with a convincing 3-0 victory over Wales. Star striker Vivianne Miedema opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, marking her return to the international stage in style. After the break, goals from Daniëlle van de Donk's replacement Victoria Pelova and rising talent Esmee Brugts sealed a dominant performance for the Dutch side.
In the day's headline clash, France stunned the defending champions England with a blistering first-half display. Two goals in quick succession—between the 42nd and 45th minutes—from Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore put the Lionesses on the back foot. Keira Walsh gave England a lifeline with a late strike in the 87th minute, but it wasn’t enough to prevent defeat.
Group D standings see the Netherlands and France tied at the top with three points each, while England and Wales face an uphill battle to keep their tournament hopes alive.
UEFA Women’s EURO 2025
Group D – Matchday 1
Wales 0–3 Netherlands (HT: 0–1)
Goals:
Vivianne Miedema 45+3’ (0–1),
Victoria Pelova 48’ (0–2),
Esmee Brugts 57’ (0–3)
France 2–1 England (HT: 2–0)
Goals:
Marie-Antoinette Katoto 36’ (1–0),
Sandy Baltimore 39’ (2–0),
Keira Walsh 87’ (2–1)
