England boosted their hopes of automated qualification for Euro 2025 with a 2-1 victory over France in Saint-Etienne.
Sarina Wiegman’s aspect dropped out of the automated qualification spots of their group after France got here from behind to beat the Lionesses 2-1 at St James’ Park on Friday. Sweden, who began the night second within the group behind France, piled the strain onto England with a 1-0 victory over Republic of Eire, however the Euro 2022 holders responded in high quality type.
In a near-perfect first-half efficiency from England, Georgia Stanway’s long-range piledriver gave the guests the lead within the twenty first minute earlier than Alessia Russo’s header doubled the benefit earlier than half-time.
France failed to provide a shot heading in the right direction within the first half, however they have been far more threatening after the break. They have been finally handed a lifeline when Ella Toone misplaced possession in the midst of the pitch earlier than Leah Williamson clipped Grace Geyoro within the penalty space.
Kadidiatou Diani made no mistake from the spot to arrange a giant end at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, and England wanted a giant save from Hannah Hampton, deputising for the injured Mary Earps, to disclaim Marie-Antoinette Katoto within the closing phases to seal what may show to be an enormous victory for the Lionesses.
The end result means England, who secured a primary win in France in 51 years, are actually in charge of their very own future by way of automated qualification. The Lionesses keep third within the group on objective distinction however sit degree on factors with Sweden, who they nonetheless should play, whereas they’re now simply two factors behind group leaders France with two video games of the marketing campaign remaining.
What’s subsequent?
The Lionesses return to motion subsequent month with their ultimate two Euro 2025 qualifying matches. Sarina Wiegman’s aspect host the Republic of Eire at Carrow Highway on July 12 after which finish their marketing campaign with an away journey in opposition to Sweden on July 16.
What are the opposite Euro 2025 qualifying dates?
July 12: England vs Republic of Eire, Norwich, kick-off 8pm
July 16: Sweden vs England, location TBC, kick-off 6pm
Play-off draw: July 19
Play-off spherical one (two legs): October 23-29
Play-off spherical two (two legs): November 27-December 3
Euro 2025 finals draw: December 16
Euro 2025 finals: July 2-27 2025 – Switzerland
