France and England on Top!
Lausanne/Zurich, Jul 9 (EFE).-
France and England delivered dominant wins on Tuesday, shaking up the so-called “Group of Death” at the Women’s Euro in Switzerland. France beat debutant Wales 4–1, while England crushed the Netherlands 4–0 to stay in the quarterfinal race.
France took control early in Lausanne with a goal from Clara Matéo in the 8th minute. Wales responded quickly, making history through 38-year-old Jess Fishlock, who scored her country’s first-ever goal at a Women’s Euro.
Despite a brave effort, Wales fell behind again just before halftime after a foul by Ceri Holland led to a penalty. Kadidiatou Diani converted to put France back ahead.
In the second half, mistakes by Wales allowed Amel Majri and Grace Geyoro to seal the win.
“This win gets us closer to the quarters,” said French coach Laurent Bonadei. “Now, a draw against the Netherlands is enough.”
In Zurich, England bounced back from their opening loss to France with a 4–0 win over the Netherlands. Lauren James scored twice, and Georgia Stanway and Ella Toone added goals to keep the defending champions in the fight.
“We knew we had to respond,” James said. “This was about pride and staying alive in the tournament.”
England dominated possession and never let the Netherlands settle. “They were just better today,” admitted Dutch coach Andries Jonker.
Now, France, England, and the Netherlands all sit with three points. The group remains wide open going into the final round. EFE
