On Sunday July 6, 2025, defending champion England lost in a tight 2-1 match against France while Wales lost their starting match against the Netherlands. The ending score for the Wales match was 3-0 with many of the Wales players not like their usual self. Both of the teams were participating in the Euro Women’s 2025 cup and for both teams, it was a stinging reminder of their unlikely hopes to continue in the tournament.

In the past few years, the Wales’ national team has never lost a starting game and with this loss, their streak ends. England’s Lionesses have also suffered more than just the loss of a game. As defending champions last year, their loss heavily impacts their title. In addition to that, England is at the risk of disqualification if they lose their next game against the Netherlands. However, Wales’ midfielder Jess Fishlock says, “Throw the rest in the bin”, meaning that they should only keep what they learned but forget about or overcome their defeat. She hopes and believes that Wales can bounce back and make it to the next stage of the Euro tournament.

The game between England and France began with England scoring but only to have their goal deemed offside. After that play, England was defending hard with France attacking ruthlessly. They scored two goals before half time. Three minutes before the game ended though, England’s Keira Walsh scored to make the score 2-1. However, before England had the chance to score again, the game ended quickly with France for a 2-1 win. After the game, many teammates and coaches commented on their game. Their manager, Strain Wiegman pointed to their accuracy when passing. Jess Carter, their midfielder, claimed that England “looked a little scared” and shot weakly compared to their normal selves. Many also criticized the midfielders including Georgia Stanway and Walsh who lost one v one battles against the French players. Similar comments and plays came from the game in Wales making the players determined to win their next games.

As the tournament continues, both teams know that the next few matches are crucial and will determine if they continue in the challenge or not. So while Wales prepare for their next match against France and England get ready to go against Netherland, both teams have their mind, set on winning and continuing in the tournament.