Let’s get right to it — the England camp hasn’t had the smoothest ride over the last few months. Form has dipped, there have been significant changes in the squad, and doubts are beginning to creep in ahead of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025.
So… could England crash out in the group stage? The honest answer? Yes — and also, no.
Group of Death
England has landed in what many are calling the group of death. Their campaign kicks off with a huge clash against France, followed by a must-perform fixture against the Netherlands. These are two top-tier European teams — tactically sharp, physically prepared, and with strong tournament pedigree.
If England don’t hit the ground running, they could realistically find themselves under serious pressure by the second game. One bad result could throw the group wide open. And if they lose both — or even just one, depending on other results — an early exit isn’t impossible.
A Team in Transition
On paper, England still has one of the strongest squads in the tournament. But the reality on the pitch hasn’t quite matched the names on the teamsheet recently. Injuries, retirements, and form issues have left the team in a state of transition.
Key players like Mary Earps, Millie Bright, and Fran Kirby — three leaders who helped power the Lionesses to glory — are now absent. That’s a big shift in both experience and leadership. Meanwhile, some of the younger players breaking into the squad are still developing their international confidence and don’t yet have major tournament experience.
Add to that a recent dip in world rankings — England are currently ranked 5th, behind the likes of Spain and Germany — and it’s fair to say this will be one of the toughest Euros campaigns in recent memory.
Can They Still Go All the Way?
Absolutely. It’s not all doom and gloom.
Despite the challenges, the core of the team remains intact, and these players know what it takes to win. Many of them lifted the trophy in 2022 and reached the final of the Women’s World Cup in 2023. That big-game experience still matters — a lot.
There’s also serious talent among the next generation. Players like Grace Clinton, Aggie Beever-Jones, and Jess Park may be young, but they have the potential to light up this tournament — if they get the opportunity.
Midfield remains one of England’s biggest strengths. Yes, Spain arguably have the strongest on-paper unit, but if England can click in midfield and get their forwards firing, they can beat anyone. The key will be fluidity, confidence, and taking chances early in games.
This isn’t the same England squad that won EURO 2022 — and that’s OK. The challenge is different now. The expectations are different. The margins are tighter.
Could England fall at the group stage? Yes, if things go wrong early.
Could they also go all the way and retain their title? Absolutely.
In fact, if they do win this time, it may just be the greatest achievement in England’s football history — overcoming adversity, rebuilding under pressure, and finding new heroes along the way.
