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Lauren James nets crucial opener to give England huge boost for Euro 2025 knockout qualification

The Lionesses must win to keep their chances of progressing alive.

Written by Mitch Fretton
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Lauren James nets crucial opener to give England huge boost for Euro 2025 knockout qualification

England have taken a crucial lead in their Euro 2025 group stage clash against the Netherlands, thanks to a fantastic finish from Lauren James that is keeping their knockout hopes alive.

The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when James, who had already been heavily involved in the opening stages, found space in the centre of the box.

A well-placed pass from Alessia Russo allowed her to strike with her left foot into the top right corner, giving England a 1-0 lead.

The goal was a product of England’s early dominance, with Lauren Hemp and James both threatening from wide areas.

Russo had already gone close with a header from close range in the ninth minute, narrowly missing the target after Hemp’s delivery. Earlier, James also saw a headed attempt fly high and wide.

Having lost to France in their opener, the Lionesses must beat the Dutch to keep any chances of making it into the knockouts alive.

Failure to do so will mean they become the first team to be eliminated in the group stages having won the tournament the previous time out.

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