Nearly a decade ago, Lucy Bronze helped England beat France for the first time in 43 years. Her perfect pass to Jodie Taylor in the 2017 Euros quarter-final changed everything. Now, as England prepare to defend their Euro title against France this Saturday in Zurich, things feel very different.
"Now we just look at France as another team to beat," Bronze explained from England's camp in Zurich. "It's another team that if we play our best, we can win."
The relationship between these footballing powers has transformed from fear to mutual respect. Both teams now view each other as worthy opponents rather than one dominating the other.
Experience Meets Youth in England's Squad
At 33, Bronze is England's most experienced player, competing in her seventh major tournament. Meanwhile, seven squad members have never played in a major competition before.
One newcomer generating excitement is 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang, who scored just 41 seconds into her England debut. Bronze couldn't hide her admiration for the young forward's physical style.
"She just runs into people and bodies them. She's so strong," Bronze said with a smile. "She's so sweet off the pitch, but on it, she'd probably be one of my favourite ones to play against because I can just run into her dead hard, and she likes to give it back."
This mix of veteran experience and youthful energy makes England an intriguing betting proposition. Their balanced squad suggests they could peak at the perfect moment during the tournament.
France in Transition
France are also going through changes. Bronze expressed surprise at coach Laurent Bonadei dropping captain Wendie Renard, who she played alongside at Lyon.
"I would rather she was here. I think it would have been good for the game, good for the France team," Bronze admitted. This significant absence could impact France's defensive organization and leadership.
Recent history between these teams is tight. France have won three of their last five meetings, while England claimed victory in their most recent clash, winning 2-1 a year ago.
This opening match carries huge implications for both teams' tournament prospects. The winner will likely top the group and secure an easier path through the knockout stages.
When asked if England were hitting their stride in training, Bronze offered insight that might interest bettors. She explained that teams often don't truly click until the tournament actually begins.
"Even if it's not clicking in the first five minutes, we've got the brains to figure it out," she added, suggesting England's adaptability could be key to overcoming early tournament nerves.
For anyone considering a wager on Saturday's clash, England's combination of experience, youth, and tactical flexibility makes them slight favorites, though France's attacking talent ensures this opener will be far from predictable.
