Women’s Euro 2025: Group D preview as Lionesses kickstart | OneFootball

England gear up for their Women’s Euro 2025 debut in the so-called ‘group of death’, alongside France, Wales and the Netherlands.

All action in Group D is ready to kick off on Saturday July 5 as the Lionesses prepare to defend their Women’s Euro crown.

Here is all you need to know about all four nations in Group D ahead of the fourth day of Euro 2025.

England

Three years after that fateful evening under the arch of Wembley Stadium and Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses are ready to defend their crown on the European stage.

Drawn into what many have referred to as the ‘group of death’ England’s task to defend their Euro 2022 title will be no mean feat. Up first is France, who have a point to prove after going so close last time around, exiting Euro 2022 in a 2-1 semi-final defeat to Germany.

The Lionesses will need to withstand the external pressure from both media and fans following the recent news of the absences of Millie Bright, Mary Earps and Fran Kirby from the tournament roster.

Wiegman has been here before, and has won it twice. First with the Netherlands in 2017 and then with England in 2022. There is no better leader to be at the helm for the Lionesses.

One to watch: Chelsea star Lauren James will be a key piece in the puzzle if England are to succeed at Euro 2022. Despite the fact that England are full to the brim of world class talent, Wiegman has no one that can replicate James’s individual magic. Her ability to split open defensive lines and create a moment of magic will be a key weapon for the Lionesses.

Netherlands

The Netherlands have been there and done it once before, after Lionesses manager Wiegman led her home nation to victory at Women’s Euro 2017. Now gearing up for their fifth Women’s European Championship, the Dutch will be hungry to secure a spot in the knockouts.

Despite the fact that the Oranje Leeuwinnen squad packs a punch, the nation have displayed some concerning form coming into the finals. A recent 4-0 dismantling by Germany in the UEFA Women’s Nations League exhibited worrying signs, before a lacklustre 1-1 draw with unqualified Scotland had the Dutch fans in a state of panic.

However, all football fans know that a major tournament is the stage for an improvement in form, something the Netherlands will be betting on if they are to dislodge their Group D opponents for a spot in the knockouts.

One to watch: When Vivianne Miedema is in form, she makes a major tournament her own. The Netherlands and Manchester City striker recently bagged a brace in a pre-tournament friendly against Finland, and with injury luck on her side, we expect her to be filling up the scoresheet at Euro 2025.

France

Ready to face holders England on matchday one, France will be looking for a fast start at Euro 2025. Gearing up for their eighth appearance at a Women’s Euros, the side have never surpassed the semi-finals despite their impressive stature within women’s football.

France are packed with speed, including Chelsea star Sandy Baltimore who made an incredible impact for Sonia Bompastor’s side during the recent treble-winning season in the Women’s Super League.

Laurent Bonadei’s side are fast on the transition and masters of dismantling teams on the counter-attack, something that will certainly threaten their upcoming opponents.

One to watch: Much like Miedema for the Dutch, Marie-Antoinette Katoto will be eyeing up a golden boot charge when she steps out for France in Group D. The dynamic striker bagged 12 goals and four assists for Paris Saint-Germain last season, before penning a deal with French giants Lyon. France will be eager to play through her and take on Group D with attacking aggression.

Wales

It was a magical night at Dublin’s AVIVA Stadium as Wales defeated the Republic of Ireland to secure their very first spot in a major tournament. Wales are certainly not just here to make up the numbers, however, the fairytale may require a large swing of luck if the side are to shake up Group D.

Wales manager Rhian Wilkinson has completely transformed the team since her appointment in the early stages of 2024. The side are brimming with confidence and identity as they head into their first major tournament.

Despite what many may perceive, Wales have been incredibly competitive against top class opposition over recent months. Back-to-back 1-1 draws with Sweden in the Nations League had Wales displaying very positive signs, something that will fill the side with confidence as they prepare to face some of the highest talent in European football.

One to watch: Wales legend Jess Fishlock is finally getting the moment she deserves as the Welsh talisman prepares to step out on the biggest stage in Europe. Leading from the front and creating moments of magic, Fishlock will be integral if Wales are to compete in the group of death.