England have put their Euro 2025 campaign back on track with a 4-0 victory against the Netherlands on Wednesday night.
The reigning European champions got off to a nightmare start in Group D last Saturday as they were beaten 2-1 by France in their opening game.
The Lionesses were staring down the barrel of an early exit if they were beaten by the Dutch but they delivered an emphatic response to the criticism they have received from the defeat to France with a comprehensive win in Zurich.
Lauren James opened the scoring with a brilliant finish from 18 yards following a raking pass from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton which picked out Alessia Russo.
Georgia Stanway doubled England’s lead shortly before half time with an excellent first-time strike from distance.
James extended England’s advantage in the 60th minute after excellent work from Lauren Hemp on the right flank.
Russo then turned provider again for England’s fourth goal as she set up Ella Toone, who was handed her first start of the tournament after being benched for the opening game against France last weekend.
The win temporarily puts England top of Group D on goal difference, but France can retake top spot if they beat Wales in their match at 8pm on Wednesday night.
England are now in the driving seat to qualify for the knockout stage as a win against Wales in their final Group D at 8pm on Sunday will be enough to see the Lionesses go through.
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