England set a number of unwanted firsts as it began the defense of its Women’s European Championship title by losing to France on Saturday.

England’s defence of their European Championship crown got off to a difficult start as France claimed a 2-1 win in Zurich.England created the first chance in the opening minute, but Lauren James

England's defence of their European title got off to a damaging start with a 2-1 defeat by France in their heavyweight group-stage match in Zurich. Widely considered England's toughest game of Group D, this was always going to be a test for Sarina Wiegman's side - and they were not up to the task.