England Women Blaze Past Netherlands While Wales Watch the Exit Door

In a whirlwind twist of Euro 2025 drama, defending champions England reignited their campaign with a thundering 4-0 win over the Netherlands, while Wales stumbled under pressure, suffering a 4-1 defeat to group leaders France. With Lauren James dazzling on her return and Wales clinging to faint hopes of survival, the stage is set for a nail-biting finale. As England eyes redemption and Wales faces a mountain to climb, Sunday’s clash promises not just goals, but a storm of glory, heartbreak, and the raw beauty of football on its grandest European stage.

STORY HIGHLIGHTS:

• England overpower Netherlands 4-0 after France setback

• Lauren James scores twice on return from injury

• Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone add to the tally

• Prince William spotted cheering from the stands

• Wales lose 4-1 to France despite Fishlock’s historic goal

• Wales now require a big win over England and favorable results elsewhere

The UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 tournament is already delivering the kind of drama and unpredictability that has come to define elite international football. For England and Wales, two neighboring nations with very different footballing pedigrees, the group stages have painted a tale of resurgence on one hand — and struggle on the other.

England, the reigning champions under manager Sarina Wiegman, arrived at the tournament with both hope and history behind them. But their opening match against France quickly reminded them that no victory is handed out on past reputation. A 2-1 defeat put the Lionesses on the back foot and exposed some early frailties.

Yet, just when doubts began to creep in, England responded with the poise and power expected of champions. In their second group game against the Netherlands — a must-win encounter — they delivered a statement performance, thrashing their opponents 4-0 and reigniting their title defense.

James Inspires as England Respond

The standout performer for England was forward Lauren James, whose return from injury could not have been more timely. Not only did she find the back of the net twice, but her pace, vision, and ability to stretch the Dutch defense brought England’s attack to life. James was substituted in the second half to a warm ovation, having already done more than enough.

Speaking to the BBC after the match, James said:

“I enjoyed it a lot, the goals say it all.”

“We bounced back from the previous game and showed we were more than capable of showing the world what we can do.”

Also on the scoresheet were Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone, both of whom executed their chances with clinical precision. England’s midfield looked more cohesive, their passing more assured, and their defense more disciplined — all signs of a team that had regrouped with intent.

Stanway summed up the team’s mindset when she told the media:

“I’ve always said, and said the other day, this is about showing who we are.”

“We fought from the very first minute to the very last.”

Manager Sarina Wiegman, who has previously led her native Netherlands to European glory, cut a satisfied figure in her post-match press conference. Aware of the pressure that had mounted after the France defeat, she credited her players for their resilience and clarity.

“I’m very happy with the performance,” Wiegman said.
“We bounced back really well from France.”
“How the team responded today was really good.”

England’s turnaround was witnessed by a royal supporter in the stands — Prince William, the FA’s president, who was seen applauding the team’s performance from the stands of Stadion Letzigrund in Zurich. It was a visual reminder of how much this team continues to inspire and attract admiration at the highest levels.

The Lionesses will now face Wales in their final group-stage game on Sunday, July 13, with qualification on the line.

Wales Face Near-Impossible Odds

While England celebrated, Wales had a very different experience. Their 4-1 loss to France further complicated an already difficult tournament debut. Entering their first major international tournament, expectations were tempered by realism — especially after being drawn into a group with both England and France.

Nonetheless, Rhian Wilkinson’s side showed heart. After going behind early, Jess Fishlock brought Wales level in the 13th minute with a goal confirmed after a VAR review. The moment was historic — Wales’ first-ever goal at a major tournament, and it briefly rattled the French side.

Unfortunately, individual defensive errors and a lack of composure under pressure allowed France to regain control and eventually put the match out of reach. Despite Fishlock’s milestone, the gap in experience and depth was evident throughout the remainder of the game.

To qualify, Wales now face a daunting task. They not only need to beat England — a team that has just crushed the Netherlands — but do so by a considerable margin. At the same time, they must rely on France defeating the Netherlands to stay in contention.

It’s a tall order, but in tournament football, stranger things have happened.

Still, for Wales, there are positives to take home. Participation itself marks a significant milestone in their footballing journey. Though their time at Euro 2025 may be short-lived, the experience gained could lay the foundation for future campaigns.

As the group stage nears its climax, all eyes will be on Sunday’s clash between England and Wales. For the Lionesses, it’s an opportunity to assert dominance and seal progression. For Wales, it’s a shot at survival — however slim the odds may be.

As the Euro 2025 group stage draws toward its final act, England Women have reignited their campaign with purpose, precision, and power — a timely reminder of their champion credentials. Lauren James’ electric comeback and a dominant team performance have lifted the Lionesses from early doubts to renewed belief. Meanwhile, Wales stand at the edge of elimination, their hopes pinned on an unlikely turn of fate. With everything to play for in the final clash, the spotlight now shifts to a decisive showdown that could script triumph or heartbreak — or both.