At the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, Group D drops the curtain on what’s already dubbed the “Group of Death.”
Reigning champions England square off with two European giants, France and the Netherlands, plus debutants Wales, in a pool so intense that one of the top three almost certainly won’t make the quarter-finals.
England, the Netherlands and France all bring pedigree while Wales show grit and ambition. This group will define the tournament.
England: Defending Women’s Euro Champions in Transition
The Lionesses carry the weight of their 2022 win and a handful of World Cup heartbreak, but this feels like a new chapter.
Key voices like Mary Earps, Fran Kirby and Millie Bright have exited, making way for fresh talent – Aggie Beever-Jones, Hannah Hampton and Michelle Agyemang among them.
That mix leaves England unpredictable, and scrutiny on squad depth, especially in midfield, is growing.
In their final warm-up, England smashed Jamaica 7-0, with Ella Toone bagging a brace and Lauren James making a strong return from injury.
But inconsistency in the Nations League – losses to Belgium and Spain, but thumping Portugal 6-0 – has added pressure. Wiegman won’t shy away: “There is huge potential,” she says.
Their opener is against France in Zurich on July 5, with their game against the Netherlands on July 9 and Wales on July 13.
France: Dark Horses Poised at the Door
France are serious threats, not just contenders. They arrive unbeaten in 2025 – eight straight wins and six clean sheets under Laurent Bonadei.
Their build-up includes big wins over Belgium and Brazil, and their defence has looked rock solid.
Their opener vs England lines up as the tie of the group. They’ve been closely matched in recent years, with five France wins and three England in their last eight meetings.
France’s next test is Wales, then a final showdown with the Dutch.
Netherlands: Star Power with Transition Woes
The Dutch remain dangerous even amid changes. They’re rebuilding under Andries Jonker, to be replaced soon by Arjan Veurink.
But with Vivianne Miedema close to 100 goals, back from a late-June friendly brace against Finland, they have attacking pedigree.
They play debutants Wales first on July 5 before hitting fixtures with France and England.
A clean sheet and early goal against Wales could build belief. Once they face the big guns, though, defensive steel and composure will be decisive.
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Wales: The Underdog with Authentic Belief
Wales are making their Euros debut under Rhian Wilkinson, and they’re going into it with confidence and character.
At the heart is team spirit and pedigree – top scorer Jess Fishlock (162 caps) anchors midfield, while 23-year-old Olivia Clark has risen quickly in goal.
Their schedule: Netherlands first, then France, and finally England. Even a point off the Dutch would rewrite expectations. They may be outsiders, but dangerous ones.
Who Will Come Out Unscathed?
England and France look the most reliable, but no one’s invincible. Netherlands are talent-rich but must stay needlessly tight.
Wales arrive as outsiders, but they’ve got the fire to make noise.
Opening games (July 5) will echo for the entire group.
Lose your opener, and this group will chew you up. Get through, and you’ve earned your shot.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Every Second Media
Recording Date: 29.06.2025