Team England kicked off their Euro 2004 campaign with a heart-breaking 2-1 defeat by the current holders France. Everything appeared to be going so well, with England containing the French dangermen Thierry Henry and David Trezeguet and restricting their opponents to long-range efforts. The English  breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Frank Lampard rose highest to head a Beckham free-kick into the roof of the French net.

England held onto the slim advantage for the duration of the second half. Indeed, they had a great opportunity to double their lead when an inspired Wayne Rooney breakaway was ended by a wild Silvestre tackle. David Beckham lost the duel with his former Manchester United team-mate Fabien Barthez though, with the French keeper pulling off a terrific penalty save.

As the minutes ticked away and the game entered injury time, England seemed set to claim a fantastic opening victory. Out of the blue, France struck. Not once, but twice. Zidane was the French hero scoring from a 91st minute free kick and a 93rd minute penalty. England had victory stolen in the cruellest possible way.

Despite the setback, the team can take many positives from the match, having run the defending champions so close. Team England is still fancied to progress from Group B and have the chance to kickstart their tournament when they meet Switzerland in Coimbra on Thursday. – 14 June