England 4–0 Netherlands: Lionesses Roar Back to Form in Euro 2025 Statement Victory
England reignited their UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, sweeping aside the Netherlands with a commanding 4–0 win in Group D. After a disappointing defeat to France in their opener, Sarina Wiegman’s side responded with power, precision, and purpose led by a brilliant brace from Lauren James.
The Lionesses were sharp from the first whistle, with their attacking intent on full display. It took just 22 minutes for England to break the deadlock. Alessia Russo launched a long diagonal ball into space, and James, timing her run perfectly, brought it under control before rifling a shot into the top corner from 18 yards.
That early breakthrough settled nerves, and England doubled their lead just before the interval. Georgia Stanway pounced on a defensive lapse in the Dutch penalty area and calmly slotted home from close range in first-half stoppage time.
After the break, England pressed even higher. The Netherlands, who had started the tournament with a comfortable 3–0 win over Wales, were second best throughout and struggled to cope with England’s pace and pressing. James added her second just after the hour mark, tapping in from inside the six-yard box after a clever build-up down the left.
Ella Toone made it four in the 67th minute, finishing smartly after Russo once again turned provider. The goal capped a ruthless display from the reigning champions, who now move into second place in Group D with three points and a +3 goal difference.
James Steals the Show
Lauren James was the undisputed star of the night. Her movement, touch, and finishing lit up the Letzigrund Stadium. Wiegman’s decision to give her a central attacking role paid dividends as the Chelsea forward found pockets of space behind the Dutch midfield and punished them repeatedly.
Wiegman: “This is the England I Know”
Speaking after the match, Wiegman praised her team’s reaction:
“We were not ourselves against France, and the players knew that. Tonight, they showed their character, their quality, and their hunger. This is the England I know.”
Dutch in Disarray
The Netherlands, so fluid against Wales, looked flat and disconnected. Vivianne Miedema was isolated up front, and the midfield trio of Groenen, van de Donk, and Kaptein were overrun by England’s intensity.
Manager Andries Jonker admitted his side were “outplayed in every department,” and now face the daunting task of needing a result against group leaders France to avoid early elimination.
What It Means
The win puts England back on track in Group D, with a final match against Wales likely to determine their qualification fate. The Netherlands, still on three points, will need to regroup quickly if they are to advance.
Scorers:
- James 22’, 60’
- Stanway 45+2’
- Toone 67’
Player of the Match: Lauren James (England)
Referee: Marta Huerta de Aza (Spain)
Attendance: 26,140
Next Fixtures – Group D (Matchday 3):
- England vs Wales – Sunday, July 13
- Netherlands vs France – Sunday, July 13
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