Will the young French team defeat the experienced England?
Soon the football world will come to a standstill. On July 5 at 21:00 at the Letzigrund Stadium in Zurich, two powerhouses of women’s football — the national teams of France and England — will face off. This will be a key Group D match of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. What are both teams preparing for this evening? Let’s take a closer look!
Lineups and key figures of both teams
France: Bonadei’s revolutionary decisions
Laurent Bonadei, the coach of France, surprised fans and experts alike with his squad for Euro 2025, leaving out two legends of the national team — Eugénie Le Sommer and Wendie Renard. Bonadei explained the exclusion of these two players, who are firmly etched in the history of women’s football, as his desire to refresh the team and introduce a new dynamic.
Key French players
- Griedge Mbock (Captain) – A reliable pillar of the defense, now leading without Renard’s support. Her role is not only to fortify the back line but also to provide mental support to younger teammates.
- Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Delphine Cascarino – Expected to bring creativity to the attack and score goals, especially in the absence of an experienced offensive leader.
- Grace Geyoro and Sandie Toletti – Crucial midfield links, orchestrating France’s play and controlling the rhythm of the game.
The new generation of the French team faces its first such major challenge — the clash with the reigning European champions, England.
England: Wiegman’s proven mix
England enters Euro 2025 as defending champions with a clear mission: to repeat the success from three years ago. Sarina Wiegman has perfected a strategy combining experienced players with new talent.
Key English players
- Lauren Hemp – Carries the offensive burden, her speed on the wing is expected to create dangerous chances and goals.
- Leah Williamson (Captain) – A visionary player, key in building play from the back. Can play both in defense and midfield.
- Lucy Bronze – Brings experience and strength, effectively joining the attack. Responsible for covering younger teammates.
- Lauren James – Her return from injury is a major boost to the attack; dynamic and brilliant in one-on-one situations.
- Beth Mead – A versatile striker whose accuracy and cleverness often decide tight contests.
Head-to-head history: a timeless rivalry and unforgettable emotions
The history of matches between these two teams is a kaleidoscope of football emotions.
Every France–England clash draws fans’ attention, and it’s devilishly hard to name a clear favorite before kick-off:
- Euro 2025 qualifiers ended in a tie: one win for France in Newcastle (2–1) and an English revenge (also 2–1) on French soil.
- At Euro 2017 England won the quarterfinal thanks to a Jodie Taylor goal, 1–0.
- At the 2015 World Cup France came out on top — 1–0, with Eugénie Le Sommer scoring the only goal.
- Euro 2013 belonged to France, who easily beat England 3–0 in the group stage.
- SheBelieves Cup 2018 — a commanding 4–1 win for England signaled the growing strength of women’s football on the Isles.
In summary, history proves these matches never disappoint in terms of excitement.
The great tactical battle – which school will prevail?
Experts emphasize the markedly different approaches of the two teams.
French offensive possession
Laurent Bonadei prefers a 4-3-3 formation:
- France will try to hold the ball for long stretches and patiently build their attacks. Fullbacks will be key in wing play.
- The midfield battle and whether Katoto can find a way past England’s defense may prove decisive.
English counter-attack
Sarina Wiegman prefers a 4-2-3-1 formation; her strategy is focused on solidity in midfield and quick transitions to attack.
- Walsh and Stanway (defensive pivots) are crucial for neutralizing French midfield play.
- Alessia Russo, supported by wingers and offensively-minded defenders like Lucy Bronze, is expected to constantly threaten the French back line.
Forecasts predict a solid, thrilling match. Bookmakers slightly favor England, citing a 1–1 draw as the most likely result. Experts, however, expect an interesting midfield battle and a tight exchange of blows.
Takeaways before the match
Coach Laurent Bonadei faces the challenge of convincing fans that his controversial squad decisions were justified. The clash with England will be a true test for him, and the young squad will have a chance to prove they are ready for the big stage.
England, under the experienced Sarina Wiegman, dreams of repeating their success. They come to Zurich as favorites, though they know full well that France loves to surprise.
We look forward eagerly to the opening whistle. This will be a true football masterpiece, showcasing everything that is most beautiful in women’s football.
