Georgia Stanway’s stunning goal helped the Lionesses secure a crucial win against France in the Euro 2025 qualifying match.

England’s national women’s football team secured a crucial 2-1 victory over France, reigniting their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2025. Led by manager Sarina Wiegman, the defending champions displayed a remarkable performance, reminiscent of their triumph against Germany at Wembley two years ago.

After a lackluster start to the campaign, including a 2-1 defeat to France last week, England found themselves on the edge of qualification. However, they turned the tables in their favor with an impressive showing against the same Group A3 opponents in Saint-Etienne.

The Lionesses dominated the first half, creating numerous opportunities to score. Alessia Russo and Beth Mead came close to finding the back of the net. Eventually, it was Georgia Stanway who broke the deadlock with a sensational right-footed strike from outside the box in the 21st minute.

Russo had another chance to extend England’s lead, but her header from Lucy Bronze’s cross was saved. However, she eventually found the back of the net, nodding home a superb cross from Lauren Hemp.

France had their moments too, with Wendie Renard’s ball across the goal narrowly missing the target. Despite an improved performance in the second half, the hosts struggled to break down England’s solid defense.

France was given a lifeline when Leah Williamson fouled Grace Geyoro in the box, resulting in a penalty. Kadidiatou Diani made no mistake from the spot, reducing the deficit to 2-1.

The final 20 minutes were nerve-wracking, with Delphine Cascarino and Marie-Antoinette Katoto coming close to equalizing for France. However, England’s goalkeeper Hannah Hampton made a stunning save to secure the victory for her team.

The result ended France’s perfect record in Euro 2025 qualifying and marked their first home competitive defeat since 2019. Despite the loss, France remains at the top of the group with nine points, two ahead of England.

On the other hand, the Lionesses currently sit in third place. They have two remaining matches against Ireland and Sweden next month to secure their spot in the tournament.

In another match in Group A3, the Republic of Ireland suffered a 1-0 defeat against Sweden. Despite a resilient performance, Ireland conceded a late goal to Magdalena Eriksson, leaving them at the bottom of the group with four consecutive losses. Their chances of avoiding relegation to the second tier now seem challenging.

Sweden, on the other hand, sits in second place, just ahead of England on goal difference. The top two teams in the group will automatically qualify for Euro 2025.