The Women’s European Championship in Switzerland saw some major shifts this week. France and England both delivered huge wins, shaking up Group D. Both teams look strong as the tournament moves closer to the knockout rounds.
England, the defending champions, put on a show in Zurich. They had a tough start to the tournament, but they bounced back in a big way. They beat the Netherlands 4-0 at Letzigrund Stadium. Lauren James scored twice, finding the net in the 22nd and 60th minutes. Georgia Stanway added a goal just before halftime, at 45 minutes. Ella Toone sealed the win with another goal in the 67th minute. This victory really changed their outlook in the group.
France also had a dominant day, coming very close to securing their spot in the quarter-finals. They defeated Wales 4-1 in their Group D match. France started strong with Clara Matéo scoring in the eighth minute. Wales quickly answered, with Jess Fishlock leveling the score at 13 minutes. But France took control after that. Kadidiatou Diani scored a penalty kick at 45+1 minutes. Amel Majri made it 3-1 in the 53rd minute, and Grace Geyoro added the fourth goal at 63 minutes.
This means the race for the quarter-finals in Group D is still on, though some things are clearer. After these games, France sits at the top with six points. The Netherlands and England each have three points. Wales is virtually out of the running for qualification.
The final group stage matches for Group D will be played on Sunday. France will face the Netherlands, and England will play Wales. France needs just a draw against the Netherlands to guarantee their spot and finish first in the group. The outcomes of these matches will decide who moves on.
Other group matches are also getting underway. The third and final day of group play begins on Thursday. Group A will see Finland play Switzerland, and Norway take on Iceland. Both games kick off at 8:00 PM Lisbon time.