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Holders England began their Women’s Euro 2025 qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Sweden after an unconvincing display at Wembley.
Alessia Russo had nodded England into the lead in the first half against the run of play before Sweden equalised after 64 minutes through Fridolina Rolfo after catching their hosts sleeping at a throw-in.
England’s Alessia Russo celebrates with team-mates after opening the scoring against Sweden
Fridolina Rolfo celebrates her equaliser
Arsenal striker Stina Blackstenius, the match-winner in the Conti Cup final against Chelsea on Sunday, should have repeated the feat when through one-on-one with Mary Earps three minutes later, but missed the target.
England saw Lauren Hemp denied twice in the closing stages of the game as they pushed for a winner, but it was too little too late for the Lionesses, who were faced with the reality of the quality in qualifying Group A3.
In the other game, France beat Republic of Ireland 1-0 to put themselves top after matchday one. For England to qualify, they need to finish in the top two, otherwise they face the prospect of a play-off to get to Switzerland.
More to follow…
What’s next?
England are next in action on Tuesday as they take on the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium; kick-off 7.30pm.
Sweden will also host France in Group A3 on the same evening; kick-off 6pm.
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