England's women battle to 2-0 win over Ireland, France top Euro qualifying group

England secured a 2-0 victory over Ireland in Dublin during the Women's Euro qualifiers on Tuesday, thanks to goals scored by Lauren James and Alex Greenwood. Despite Ireland's determined effort until the end, France maintains their lead in League A Group 3 with a 1-0 win over Sweden.

Leah Williamson returned to captain England after a year out of the team due to an ACL injury. In the 12th minute, Chelsea attacker James scored a goal to give the visitors the lead. The Irish failed to deal with a cross into the box, allowing James to finish with precision.

Shortly after, Alex Greenwood converted a penalty to extend England's lead. She was then given another opportunity from the spot due to another handball, but this time her shot hit Courtney Brosnan's left-hand post and the ball bounced away to safety.

In the second half, the Irish adopted a more direct approach, putting pressure on England. However, despite their efforts, they were unable to find the back of the net and suffered their second consecutive defeat in the qualifying group.

Meanwhile, France secured a 1-0 victory over Sweden, propelling them to the top of the group. Wendie Renard scored the winning goal in the 81st minute, while Vicki Becho of France received a second yellow card and was dismissed in stoppage time.

In Group 1, Finland bounced back from a previous defeat to Norway by defeating Italy 2-1 in Helsinki. The Netherlands also emerged victorious, with Lineth Beerensteyn scoring the only goal of the game against Norway.

In Group 2, the Czech Republic took an unexpected 1-0 lead over Spain. However, the world champions quickly turned the tide and secured a 3-1 victory, placing them at the top of the group with six points from two games. Denmark, who defeated Belgium 4-2, closely trails Spain on goal difference.

Germany's Lea Schueller struck twice as her side went top of Group 4 thanks to a 3-1 win at home to Iceland, with Austria second in the standings after a 3-1 win away to Poland.