The UEFA EURO 2024 Women U-19 competition started on Monday with England and France pitted against first-timers Lithuania and Serbia in Group A. In the Openers, the European giants cruised to decisive wins over their opponents on Monday.
It was a debut game for Lithuania in the WU19 finals, and it was certainly one many fans won’t forget for the new entrants as they succumbed to quite a beating from England, losing 10 – 0 in Kaunas. Poppy Pritchard and Michelle Agyemang both netted hat tricks in a tournament record victory, as England went on to prove why they were named favourites for the trophy.
France didn’t have it easy with Serbia, however, as a Nina Matejic penalty shot the Serbians in front after only about 30 minutes. Serbia is featuring in the Euro WU19 finals for the first time since 2012, and despite that strong start to the game, France responded with three goals in the second half, with Camille Robillard, Fanny Rossi, and Wissa Sangare getting on the scoresheet.
The Group B games ended in stalemates, as Ireland held defending champions Spain to a goalless draw. The former champions recorded a whopping 29 shots in the match, but Ireland held strong to deny them the needed goals. Germany and Netherlands left the scoring till late in the game, as Melina Kruger gave Germany the lead in the 75th minute before substitute Hanna Huizenga equalized in stoppage time to secure a point.
Action continues later this week, as the Group A fixtures will be held on Wednesday and Group B games will take place on Thursday. Watch this space for more reviews from the ongoing UEFA WU19 tournament.
For more news, fixtures and updates in the world of women football, our Goalissa site is the best resource.
Image credits: Sustain Health
