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

Lauren James, who was a major doubt ahead of Sarina Wiegman’s squad selection, played her first match since April when she came on as a 63rd minute substitute in Sunday’s pre-tournament friendly — a 7-0 thrashing of Jamaica. And Wiegman said James could even start when the Lionesses kick off their title defense against France on Saturday in Zurich.

England's bid to defend their Euros title took a major hit, as France outclassed the Lionesses on a night where the midfield battle proved decisive.