ZURICH (AP) — England set a number of unwanted firsts as it began the defense of its Women’s European Championship title by losing to France 2-1 on Saturday. Marie-Antoinette Katoto and Sandy Baltimore scored two quickfire goals towards the end of the first half as France recorded a ninth straight win and stunned the defending champion.

Group D action at the UEFA Women's Euro tournament begins Saturday with two exciting matchups, the second one will feature a clash between France and England.

England's bid to defend their Euros title took a major hit, as France outclassed the Lionesses on a night where the midfield battle proved decisive.