England’s 2–1 loss to France in their EURO 2025 opener will sting — but not just because they became the first reigning champions to lose their opening game. What hurts more is how predictable it all felt.
Poor tempo. Late changes. Old habits. This wasn’t just a defeat — it felt like a warning.
A Step Too Slow — and a Step Too Familiar
First touches were heavy. The midfield couldn’t find rhythm. Passes went backwards when they needed to go forward — and by the time England grew into the game, France had already taken control.
The midfield trio looked hesitant — too many touches, not enough urgency. Against a side as quick and aggressive as France, you simply can’t afford to slow the game down like that.
Tactical Stagnation & Substitutions Too Late
This wasn’t about just one bad night — it’s part of a pattern.
England’s system looked stale. Russo was isolated up front, with no support and no midfield runners offering outlets. When England did switch to two up top, things improved. But by then, France were already in the driver’s seat.
As for the substitutions? Way too late.
- Kelly came on but had no impact.
- Clinton, Toone, and Agyemang were the only real bright spots off the bench.
- Park and Beever-Jones never got their shot, but should’ve.
Familiar Faces, Familiar Mistakes
Let’s talk selections.
It felt too soon to start players like Stanway, Mead, and James. They didn’t look sharp enough, and the balance suffered. Carter had a difficult night — left exposed too often — and Bronze had a game to forget. Her misplaced pass led to the second goal, and there were a few too many moments of indecision throughout.
Greenwood still looks more effective as a wingback, while the lack of a natural partner for Williamson at centre-back remains a problem.
Let the Kids Play
This has been brewing since the World Cup.
Serina Wiegman has spoken about “a new England”, but it’s only a new England if you pick the new players. Clinton, Park, Le Tissier, Agyemang, Beever-Jones — they offer energy, freshness, and intent. You could see the shift in tempo when they were involved.
It’s time to lean into the transition. Give the new generation their moment — not when it’s too late, but when it can still make the difference.
The Refereeing? Just as Flat
Let’s not ignore the officiating.
The refereeing team, including VAR, had a game to forget. The disallowed goal was a baffling offside call — one that simply can’t stand at this level. Tackles flew in from France with little punishment, while England picked up fouls for much less.
The challenge on Williamson was at least a yellow, if not borderline red. And across the pitch, the inconsistency was glaring.
Still, it’s important to admit: even if the offside goal stood, France probably still would have found a way. The real issue? England’s inability to convert their early chances. We could have been 2–0 up inside two minutes — and that would’ve changed everything.
Final Word
Next up: the Netherlands.
Lose that, and England are out. A draw won’t be enough — especially with Wales waiting, and they’ll throw everything at us. This team is running out of second chances.
This was a wake-up call. Not just because of the result — but because of how predictable it all felt.
Isn’t it time England truly became the “new team” we keep hearing about?
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