England and the Netherlands meet this week in Switzerland for a pivotal Group D fixture at the Women's Euros. England are aiming to recover from a poor start and claim a crucial three points to keep alive their hopes of progressing from what is widely regarded as the tournament’s “group of death”.
The Lionesses, reigning European champions, enter this match under a degree of scrutiny following a 2-1 defeat to France in their opening game. The loss has left England with little margin for error as they seek to defend their title. Manager Sarina Wiegman continues to blend experienced heads with younger talent, but the squad has undergone notable changes since their 2022 triumph. The retirements of Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, alongside Millie Bright’s decision to step away for personal reasons, have forced a recalibration of both leadership and tactical approach.
Lucy Bronze, Keira Walsh and Leah Williamson remain central figures, each bringing over a century of international caps. The midfield, anchored by Walsh and Georgia Stanway, will have to offer more than they did against the French in the team's buildup, while the attack, spearheaded by the likes of Lauren James, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo, will need to be more innovative. The return of James from injury is a timely boost, but Weigman will be tempted to move her out wide for this game after an ineffective shift at the 10 on Saturday night.
In goal, Hannah Hampton has stepped into the number one role, backed by two uncapped goalkeepers. While Hampton’s club form has impressed, her lack of major tournament experience is a talking point. Defensive leadership, too, is being redefined in the absence of Bright, with Williamson and Greenwood tasked with marshalling the back line. Jess Carter's role at left-back is also a huge question mark, given it's not a position that comes naturally to her.
The defeat to France exposed some major vulnerabilities in this England side, particularly physically, where England looked slow and lethargic compared to a fast and energetic French team. However, the Lionesses have a history of responding to setbacks at major tournaments, so all is far from lost here.
The Netherlands arrive in Switzerland with less fanfare than in previous tournaments but remain a dangerous and well-organised side. Andries Jonker’s squad blends experienced internationals with a new generation of talent. The Dutch opened their campaign with a 3-0 win over Wales, a result that has given them a platform to challenge for a knockout place in a tough group.
The Oranje’s squad features familiar names from top European clubs. Vivianne Miedema, now at Manchester City, leads the attack, supported by creative midfielders such as Danielle van de Donk and Esmee Brugts. The defence is anchored by Dominique Janssen and Veerle Buurman, while Daphne van Domselaar of Arsenal provides reliability in goal.
Recent results have been encouraging, and the side has averaged nearly two goals per game in 2025, though their defensive showings could certainly be improved on, showing that this team - containing a number of youngsters - is far from the finished article.
The Dutch approach is typically pragmatic, focusing on possession and quick transitions. The midfield trio of van de Donk, Jackie Groenen, and Wieke Kaptein offers both discipline and creativity, while Miedema is a big goal threat up top.
The Dutch will fancy their chances here, but looking at things on paper, it's been nearly two years since the Dutch beat an opponent of England's calibre, beating Serena Weigman's side 2-1 in the Nations League, only to lose the reverse leg 3-2. This will likely be a tight contest, but we're still waiting for a statement performance from this Netherlands side to show they can win games of this magnitude.
England 2-1 Netherlands
