How England were edged out by France

1. Le Sommer with great long-range strike
2. England struggle to create chances
3. Colombia & Mexico complete Group F
4. England play Mexico on Saturday

A bit of a bum note to start on results-wise. But England kept one of the tournament favourites honest right until the final whistles.

That is not too bad in the broad scheme of things.

Don't forget you can check out England's next two opponents - Colombia and Mexico - as they meet in Group F's other match in a little under half an hour's time.

There is also Spain v Costa Rica (21:00 BST) and Brazil v South Korea (midnight) to tickle your fancy this evening.

"Where," you ask? Need you ask?

Live video coverage of all the matches is right here on the BBC Sport website.

See you later.

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Sophie L: Mark Sampson set up to mute an attacking team, losing 1-0 to the team ranked third in the world isn't to be sniffed at.

Getty Images

It is not just Prime Minister David Cameron working hard on the international diplomacy this week.

England's players attempted to drum up a little local support at the end of the match with a pre-prepared banner.

Their game against Mexico on Saturday is also in Moncton.

The jury may be out on England as a whole, but left-back Claire Rafferty's stock is on the rise after she snuffed out Elodie Thomis' threat.

The Chelsea defender had 62 touches - 14 more than anyone else in an England shirt managed - and won an impressive 83% of, what the stats guys call, "duels". Basically any 50:50s on the ground or in the air.

She got forward well as well:

Opta

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Rich Sears: Good display by England. Contained and went for the draw and didn't happen. But a sensible display.

Sean Hunt: Everyone slating England. They only lost 1-0 to France who are predicted to get to semis.. Roll on Mexico and Colombia.

Joel Salmon: England's tactics are good, they're pretty solid as a team. But they lack the technical ability to really shine.

AFP

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"England not particularly entertaining but then they will say they are here to do a job. The games v Mexico and Colombia will be real measure."

England play Mexico on Saturday at 21:00 BST before closing their Group F campaign against Colombia at 21:00 BST on Wednesday 17 June.

Opta

There was more ambition from England towards the end of the game with Toni Duggan and Fran Kirby coming on in the 60th and 68th minute to join Eni Aluko up front.

But, overall, England were penned back by a France side who dominated the ball.

The average position graphic above shows a side under the cosh.

Rachel Yankey

Former England midfielder

"It was more positive towards the end from England's point of view. Hopefully in the next group game we can push on and get the win.

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Reuters

England manager Mark Sampson described his team's performance as "superb". It seems you do not agree.

Matt Love: Typical English sports mentality from the manager there, that was not a brilliant England performance.

Davestwin7: As much as I am proud to be English, at any point did we string together more than three passes?

OULondon: England played better in the second half but France are a quality team and deserved to win.

"I expected more from France"

Liverpool forward Natasha Dowie speaking on BBC Two: "I was disappointed with France. I expected more from them with the quality they had on the pitch. I don't think it's too bad a result for England. It wasn't a great game for either team."

Former Liverpool and England striker Stan Collymore: England positives...play with tempo/adventure of second half, match for most. Rafferty excellent at LB, Aluko needs to hold it up more reliably.

So "a superb performance" or an underwhelming, under-ambitious display that amounts to a missed opportunity to scalp one of the tournament favourites?

If you want another look at the action to make up your mind, the highlights from today's game are available on the, funny enough, highlights tab on this page.

Getty Images

England coach Mark Sampson speaking to BBC Two: "I thought we managed the first half superbly. You are always vulnerable to a counter when you encourage your team to try and play the ball out of defence like we do. But the longer the half went on there was only one team who was going to score to get back into it. That was a superb England performance."

England could, conceivably, have nicked it.

But the stats suggest it would have been grand larceny if they had.

France-England

Total shots: 19-3

On target: 3-1

Total passes: 524-292

Possession: 64%-36%

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"Mark Sampson came with a plan and to a certain degree it worked. England didn't look like scoring but they didn't need to win and the games against Mexico and Colombia will allow England to be more attack-minded. 8/10 for defensive organisation. 4/10 for entertainment."

Rachel Yankey

Former England midfielder on BBC Two

"They have two more games to show what England can do because they have some really good players."

Danny Mills

Former England defender on BBC Two

"France want to grow into this tournament and they looked like they cruised it. There's a confidence boost for England in that they didn't get beaten by three or four goals which we thought might happen.

"That's important. We expect France to beat everyone in the group so it becomes a mini group. If England had been beaten three or four that would have damaged their confidence."

England striker Eni Aluko looks tearful as she heads off the pitch. Is it just the bitter taste of defeat or has she picked up an injury?

Not clear just yet, we will keep an eye out. Aluko certainly ran her heart out for her team today.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"England will take a lot of heart from this game. As an England critic and fan, I can take a lot of positives from this game.

"Mexico are no pushovers but England now are armed with the capability of changing their tactics. That will hold them in good stead against Colombia too.

"There has been a lot of rotation, and there is great flexibility and adaptability in the side.

"The girls can be proud of their performance and one quality from France which flew into the top corner. England were punished."

AP

Former Liverpool and France striker Djibril Cisse: Allez les filles.

He should be stripped of the Lordship of Frondsham for such treachery.

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"England have competed with one of the best teams in the world. They have got to take heart from that."

FULL-TIME

A lovely flick from Eni Aluko, a tiny corridor of space for Fran Kirby. Could she be in? No! A covering defender slams the door with a hoofed clearance...

INJURY TIME

Four minutes of injury time and the chants of Allez Les Bleus are getting a little louder and longer.

Reuters

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"Could Eni have been a little bit more composed? It was a snap shot. England still have time."

The ball breaks off Fran Kirby as a mob of France defenders descend on the England striker, straight into the path of Eni Aluko on the edge of the box.

Her shot is high and handsome though, right towards Row Z behind Sarah Bouhaddi's goal.

Toni Duggan chases Laura Georges into the corner and wins a throw-in deep in the France half. Is there time? And do England have the quality to steal something?

SUBSTITUTION

France nibble a few more seconds off the clock with Louisa Necib giving way to Claire Lavogez.

No major tactical rejig, just another step closer to full-time once the switch is finally done.

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Lee 'Ratty' Martin: Duggan, Kirby and Aluko up front now....can see the Lionesses getting an equaliser!

Marcus Webb: England look like a team defending a 1-0 lead not chasing the game. Still sitting too deep!

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AP

No dice. Goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi is safe and secure, gathering an up-and-under in the France box.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"I want to see Fran Kirby go through the middle and stretch the France back line. Kirby has great pace and could do a good job for Eniola Aluko, who has worked tirelessly all game."

Now, is there a chance for England to smash and grab something. A throw-in up by the France corner flag...

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"I think we will see a different England in the next two games, an attacking England."

AP

France are playing a bit of keep-ball here, knocking it around and running the legs off England who are chasing hard but not able to put much pressure on a side who are all very composed on the ball.

Finally France have a pop at goal from distance, Elise Bussaglia drilling just wide.

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Former Crystal Palace forward Mark Bright: Come on England, just over ten mins left, need to play higher and press, @england #FifaWomensWorldCup

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David Cook: Wow...Laura Bassett is tough! Reminds me of when Stuart Pearce got headbutted at Euro 92.

David Smith: Uninspired England performance. Rotten refereeing. You're right, it REALLY IS just like the men's World Cup!

AFP

SUBSTITUTION

France withdraw the game's star player - Eugenie Le Sommer - to shore up their side and stiffen the defensive sinews.

On comes wily old veteran Elise Bussaglia to protect the back four.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"Signs from both managers with their substitutions. It looks like France are happy to hold on and keep possession while England's signal has been to bring on attacking players.

"Mark Sampson has shown ambition and not settling to lose the game. He wants something from it to finish top of the group."

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Matt Churchill: If those two fouls had happened in a men's game all hell would have broken loose. Terrible refereeing.

Bradley Hill: The referee is clueless. France should be down to 10 players. An elbow to the face is a red card offence.

SUBSTITUTION

More attacking intent from Mark Sampson who sacrifices midfield holding player Katie Chapman for Jade Moore. Fresh legs with a licence to bomb on.

Eugenie Le Sonner is not shy of a long-range hit. With good reason.

The France playmaker chances her left peg from fully 30 yards and thuds just wide and into the advertising hoardings.

SUBSTITUTION

A change for France as Elodie Thomis - who has been kept quiet by England - is replaced by Kenza Dali.

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Neale: Ouch, what a shame they didn't take the opportunity to trial video playbacks here - that high elbow was outrageous.

Heather Bancroft: Should have been a red there for France.

AFP

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"That's terrible. That's naughty. Camille Abily is going up with her elbow. If the referee had seen that...Laura Bassett is a tough cookie though and she was straight back up. But she will have noted her shirt number!"

Getty Images

England's two centre-backs are both laid out flat.

First Laura Bassett is flattened by a stray arm from Camille Abily, before Steph Houghton gets the worse of an accidental clash of heads.

On the plus side a prone Houghton blocks a shot from Louisa Necib that could have well been sneaking in.

Both England defenders are up and running.

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"First visible sign of frustration from Mark Sampson as Eni Aluko is hussled off the ball by Elodie Thomis. Fran Kirby on for Alex Scott now, meaning Lucy Bronze will head back to right-back. Thomis will have more space to operate now."

SUBSTITUTION

Mark Sampson has just shaken up the snow globe.

Off comes Alex Scott and on comes free-scoring Fran Kirby.

He wants a goal and at least a point here.

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JavelBleach: Good build up, then tamely passed it to the French defence.

Mike Heal: Not sure about all the negativity towards England. Playing well in spells and taking the game to arguably the competition favourites.

Denise Evans: What's with all the EngLAN women bashing? They had a poor FIRST half but the men have had a poor decade. Much better second half.

Reuters

Louisa Necib strokes a lovely delivery into the penalty area from the free-kick given away by Katie Chapman and her teasing delivery only just eludes the towering figure of Wendy Renard, who has strolled up from the back for France.

YELLOW CARD

Katie Chapman has a little nip at the heels of Eugenie Le Sommer as she gets caught the wrong side of the France attacker and is the first name in the book.

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ThatFootballWebsite: A potential easier route to the latter stages for the team that finishes second in Group F might suit England better anyway.

David Broome: England could improve tactically, maybe try passing the ball to their own team instead of the French and see if that helps?

Reuters

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France are plotting around the edge of the penalty area, but England are holding a strong line on the 18-yard box.

Claire Rafferty at left-back will be lucky not to get patted down on the way out of the stadium because she has clearly had Elodie Thomis in her pocket for most of the game so far.

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"More ambition from England in this half, Toni Duggan came on for England in their second group game of Euro 2013 and made an impact with a goal."

AFP

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"It is great to see Toni Duggan coming on. She has been a prolific goalscorer and has amazing energy. She brings a lot to the team and will need discipline. Duggan needs to stay switched on for the set pieces.

SUBSTITUTION

The first change by England and Toni Duggan will get a run-out, coming on to give Eni Aluko more support in attack than Ellen White - the player departing - could offer.

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"That's a really clever ball in by Eniola Aluko. It's a good run by Jill - that's where England can get a goal.

"I'm really pleased to see Toni Duggan come on. She can create things and score goals."

Not saying a whole lot, but that is England's best chance yet.

Jill Scott makes a clever run, darting to the near post to meet Eni Aluko's corner. She connects with the ball at an awkward height with a clever side-foot volley, but it lacks power and she can only direct it straight at the France goalkeeper.

Scott has injured herself in the process but after treatment is able to carry on.

Nice play from France again and unsurprisingly Eugenie Le Sommer is at the centre of it.

The France goalscorer fires just over the top, taking on a snap volley from Jessica Houara's incisive ball in. Over the top but not by much and it was really travelling. Steph Houghton had left her in too much space.

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Stephen: More chance of me playing for England ladies than them winning World Cup.

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AFP

Getty Images

It is still raining moose and elk out there in Canada.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"Much better play from England. The defence and midfield were dropping deeper in the first half, but in the second the midfield have been higher and putting pressure on the French defence and putting them on the back foot."

Gary Lineker

Former England captain

"England's women are really struggling. They need our support. @BBCTwo for the 2nd half, now."

AFP

Well done Karen Bardsley.

France go route one and old school with a big kick downfield, a flick on and a lightening chase from Elodie Thomis, off her wing and in behind the England centre-backs.

Goalkeeper Bardsley is swift of her line though to get there first though.

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William Morton: England winning the Women's World Cup? Sorry, not a hope. Average.

Griffiths: Consistency in English football - the women are just as bad as the men at the World Cup.

AFP

Hearts in mouths on the England bench as Fara Williams almost gives the ball away in a dangerous position. She gets away with it, but only just.

That is how the opener happened.

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Matt Underwood: @pompeyfcladies under 10s loving the England game @FIFAWWC. Come on England.

She has got dynamite in those insteps.

Eugenie Le Sommer is already menacing the England backline, advancing before letting fly from 25 yards.

Clean as a whistle off her boot, but straight down the gullet of England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley.

KICK-OFF

No changes for either side.

We are back up and running.

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"Not what you would call an ambitious half from England. The plan to contain France has worked to a point, but maybe Mark Sampson's side need to give the French defence something more to think about."

The French are out early, darting between cones and skipping between the rungs of some chain ladders laid out on the surface.

England and captain Steph Houghton opt for a huddle and pep-talk.

Danny Mills

Former England defender on BBC Two

"England manager Mark Sampson has some big decisions to make. Would he be happy with a loss which will be disappointing. Is he brave enough to change formation and play some risk football?"

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David Cook: Wanted Karen Bardsley to be better with that shot! Come on England. ..still in it!

Adam Elgey: Wouldn't England rather finish second in this group and not draw Germany in quarters so surely losing isn't too bad?

Emjay Dee: Only one team playing football and they are not in white. Too much kick and rush. England just like the men.

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Feeling optimistic?

We asked in our vote how far you thought England would go in the World Cup. The most popular option was that Mark Sampson's team would reach the last eight, with 29% of you voting for that option.

Interestingly, there is plenty of optimism about, with an impressive 19% of you suggesting England will win the tournament.

"France can play better"

Liverpool forward Natasha Dowie speaking on BBC Two: "You will definitely see England changes in the second half. I have been disappointed by France. They will play better in the second half which is worrying for England.

"It depends what manager Mark Sampson wants to get out of this game, does he want a narrow defeat or does he want to try to win the game. He may need to put on some more attack-minded players."

Rachel Yankey has called it right.

England have completed just 57% of their passes, France have racked up 82%.

The right-hand side has been the more promising for England. Alex Scott and Jill Scott on that wing have registered 32 and 26 touches - the most and third-most of England's players respectively.

Check out England's overall heat map below.

Opta

"Sloppy passing has cost England"

Rachel Yankey

Former England midfielder on BBC Two

"England started quite well and the players have worked hard. But a few sloppy passes have let them down."

Danny Mills

Former England defender on BBC Two

"It was a decent start. The game plan seemed to outfox the French and they could not find any rhythm. They started to get control of the game after 20 minutes when they worked the opposition out. England don't look like scoring though."

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Gavin Simpson: The England team are playing so deep and negative, it's really disappointing. Expected better.

Opta

These are all England's touches in the first half. Not one in the France penalty area.

And only one in a potential scoring position - Katie Chapman's effort on the right edge of the D.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"I feel very encouraged by England's performance. England were always going to relinquish possession but hey are implementing their tactics very well. They have been very disciplined in their approach.

"They need to take their opportunities going forward and get players into the box."

Watch the opening goal now

Reuters

Missed Eugenie Le Sommer's spectacular opening goal in Moncton? Panic not, just explore the highlights tab/button and all will become clear.

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"England have done OK. They obviously had that lapse of concentration which cost them a goal. But going forward they need to commit a few more bodies if they want to get an equaliser."

HALF-TIME

INJURY TIME

One minute extra at the end of the first half...

Not sure about best macs Al, it looks the plastic poncho is this season's must-have garment in Moncton.

France are building some late pressure at the end of the half. Ellen White heads one corner clear, before goalkeeper Karen Bardsley comes and claims cleanly.

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"That Katie Chapman chance allows the England fans here to find their voices with 'Let's go England, let's go!' Rain still teeming down and almost everyone in their best macs. Fortunately, we are under cover!"

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Curtis: Sweden v Nigeria last night was a cracker, it'd be hard to beat for entertainment. Great goal by France, England up against it.

Mrs Harry Kane: Well it's safe to say that England women are more exciting than the men's team.

Daniel Gravestock: Getting a bit scrappy from England, a term that is a tad too familiar when it comes to this country and football.

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Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"As I said, France goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi is liable to an error. She is a former outfield player and if she is not involved, she wants to get involved.

"She came for a cross which she should not have done. That is to England's advantage who need to keep pumping balls into the box.

England get their first effort in on goal with Katie Chapman unable to exploit goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi's rush off her line to clear a cross.

Her chip drifts tamely wide...

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Ekara: The goal may actually force England to be positive. Showing France way too much respect.

Aessof: England just don't seem to want to keep the ball. They're inviting France to attack them. Again, hype, but no substance.

Liz Tray: We're doing OK, defending reasonably, but you just can't keep giving the ball away like that! France just look stronger.

AFP

England are creaking.

Goalkeeper Karen Bardsley tries to impose her authority on her penalty area, but gets nowhere near a corner. A defender bail her out with a clearing header.

The danger is not over yet though. We get the first glimpse of Louisa Necib's skills as she dances past Claire Rafferty and fires just wide from the edge of the box.

Opta

They seek her here, they seek her there...

France goalscorer Eugenie Le Sommer has been roaming far and wide to find space. Very canny play to try to get away from England's pressing game.

France have had five shots on goal. England yet to register one.

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"Karen Bardsley let in a long-range strike in England's 2011 World Cup opener against Mexico, but I don't think she could have done anything about that strike. England need to regroup."

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Ian: Poor defending giving the ball away stupidly in a dangerous area. Clinically punished.

Rizpey: Well, all the "England are doing well" Didn't last so long did it?

Jon Freeman: I've been telling people how wonderfully positive women's football is, then England come out with a 5-5-0 formation.

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Replays suggest that Karen Bardsley was unsighted by England defender Alex Scott as Eugenie Le Sommer pulled the trigger.

It would have been some save to keep it out in my opinion.

Anyway, France are fizzing with confidence after that opener, all little triangles and give-and-gos.

When does coach Mark Sampson call on the creative likes of Toni Duggan or Lianne Sanderson off the bench?

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Lee Roberts: Great strike by Le Sommer however Bardsley should have done better there. I agree with Sue Smith.

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"You have to be absolutely switched on for the entire game. England are trying to play in areas they don't need to play in, just get rid of the ball. Goalkeeper Karen Bardsley could have done a bit better."

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"Frustrating. That has beaten goalkeeper Karen Bardsley at her near post. It was given away sloppily away and she could turn and get a shot away.

"Bardsley is her own biggest critic and will know she can do better than that. She is a world class goalkeeper and hopefully she can settle down."

AFP

GOAL

Pick that one out!

England's good and hard work goes down the gurgler in a moment of brilliance from Eugenie Le Sommer.

The France striker wallops a rising drive inside Karen Bardsley's near post from 20 yards after Katie Chapman lost the ball in midfield.

The goalkeeper got hands to it, but there was no keeping that out.

Reuters

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Lee Roberts: Good 25 minutes for England coping well with the France team. Now is the time to try to push forward.

AFP

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Paul England: Good start by England. France look a confused team.

Bruce Wells: Can we keep the ball for more than two seconds please?

Henry: RE: Ian [23 mins] - Moncton isn't exactly 'huge' by any means, just shy of 65,000 living there - not surprised at all.

AFP

Eni Aluko's pace makes Laura Georges look like she is wading through treacle.

The England striker leaves scorch mark on the turf as she bursts down the left wing, peeling wide from her central position.

She should have a corner as Georges gets back to cover and then puts the ball out, but an inexplicable call goes France's way.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"If your goalkeeper can come and catch the ball cleanly, it takes so much pressure off the defence and makes them feel so good. It will also give England time to manage the game and slow things down, breaking up the tempo for France.

"Let's not mince our words, keeper Karen Bardsley needs to be catching the ball."

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"I've got to say how really impressively England have defended so far. They're doubling up and working together in units."

France are beginning to translate possession into chances.

First goalkeeper Karen Bardsley has to punch away Louisa Necib's deflected free-kick before Fara Williams manages to get a shin to Eugenie Le Sommer's shot, diverting it wide when the net could have been bulging.

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Toby Foot: Good start for England, but they're giving the French too much time and room on the ball, need to put more pressure on the ball.

Richard Cohen: Big striker and full-back on the wings. All creative talent on bench. Mark Sampson's set up looking for 0-0 from kick-off.

Ian: Surprised by so many empty seats in what isn't a huge stadium for two known teams.

AFP

Dogged stuff from Claire Rafferty who muscles Elodie Thomis off the ball just as the France winger reaches for the jet-boost button to burst in behind.

Good defending from her and England as a whole so far.

Keeping it tight

Very little to choose between the teams so far...England might have had less of the ball but Mark Sampson's team have spent plenty of time in the French final third.

Opta

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"France midfielder Louisa Necib was given the nickname 'The female Zinedine Zidane'. She hasn't quite fulfilled the expectations over the last couple of years. However, she will be looking to impose herself on this tournament."

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Matt Underwood: Mia & Imogen from Portsmouth sorting out @FIFAWWC swaps watching the England game.

England look well set-up defensively. They are allowing France's back four to have the ball under little pressure, but as soon as they try and transfer possession to anyone with more attacking threat the tackles come snapping in.

The dangerous playmaker Louisa Nacib has not been in it so far.

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Elliott Fairs: We're ready. Come on England!

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"First match of the World Cup played on artificial turf in rain. Ball skidding through quite markedly. England boss Mark Sampson must be pleased so far, his 4-5-1 system is working well.

"Fara Williams is sticking to Eugenie Le Sommer like glue and Alex Scott is shadowing Louisa Necib. England growing in confidence."

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"Midfielder Jill Scott has been compared to Peter Crouch because she is so tall but is very skilful when she has the ball. She likes to dance on the pitch, but she likes to dance off the pitch too!"

Ohhh!

Katie Chapman pounces on a loose ball in midfield and pings an immediate outside-of the-foot pass towards Eni Aluko whose pace catches the French defenders on their heels.

France goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi is not napping though, rushing forward to boot clear.

That looks England's likeliest route to goal though. Aluko looks to have the beating of her markers for pace.

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Davestwin7: My office in America is ready. Come on England!

England are building patiently from the back, not being rushed into hoofed clearances despite the zippy surface and howling wind.

So far, so safe. It has paid off.

Alex and Jill Scott are making headway down the right. The two teams are still shadow-boxing in midfield mostly.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"England have fantastic support wherever they go. Families love coming out and my family came out to the World Cup in China. England midfielder Katie Chapman will be so pleased her three boys and husband are here in potentially her last opportunity at a World Cup."

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Jimmy O'Brien: England starting well ... & here comes the wind & rain.

HGFPL: Good bit of early pressure.

Nikki Halliwell: Don't think I've ever walked home so fast but just about made it, grateful I don't have far to travel.

AFP

With the wind whipping around, it is not a day for the goakeepers to gamble on crosses.

England stopper Karen Bardsley wisely stays on her line and watches as defender Laura Bassett does just enough to put off Camile Abily, whose header is down into the artificial surface and wide.

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"Confident start by England, Lucy Bronze seeing plenty of the ball and linking with Eniola Aluko up top. Meanwhile, the press box dives for cover as the rain drives in."

A heavy touch from striker Ellen White, as she gets back to do some defending, allows the ball to run to France full-back Laure Bolleau on the edge of the area.

No second thoughts from Bolleau who thrashes goalwards with her first touch, but White has made amends, getting out to make the block.

And the subsequent corner comes to nothing.

Sue Smith

Former England forward on BBC Two

"England have set up really compact, really deep. They're going to try and hit France on the counter."

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"I know France goalkeeper Sarah Bouhaddi very well. She handles the ball well but prone to the odd error and can be wound up very easily."

...Headed clear by France.

It has just started chucking it down by the way. A real deluge, complete with a hooley of a wind.

This is like February in the north-east. Maybe it won't be to the French liking.

Eni Aluko with a corner, but it is cleared at the near post as the referee blows for a foul on keeper Sarah Bouhaddi.

England coach Mark Sampson is already prowling the technical area. Promising signs for him as well as Eni Aluko gets an early run at Laura Georges.

She is matched for pace, but England have a useful spot for a free-kick delivery inside the France half. Fara Williams to take...

KICK-OFF

Here we go. The journey begins.

France get us under way...

@katiegbbc

BBC Sport's Katie Gornall: "I think some fans are going to miss the start of this match. Still long queues outside 10 mins from kick-off.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Ray Lee: Well, our girls could hardly do worse than the 'men' did.

Philip: Good luck England women in the World Cup, hopeful we can score a lot of goals. Going for a 4-1 win for England.

Jamie Brocklehurst: Come on England ladies. Show the men how to do it at a World Cup!

Let us know on #bbcfootball, on the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages and 81111 on text.

Rachel Brown-Finnis

Former England goalkeeper on BBC Radio 5 live

"We have been talking a lot about this game, and now it is time for England to deliver. All the players were belting out the national anthem, they are very proud."

Well, if it comes down to decibels I think England shaded it.

A rousing rendition of God Save the Queen...

Liverpool striker Natasha Dowie on BBC Two: "Midfielder Fara Williams is fantastic for the team. She will be huge as the most capped player in the team and will look to keep them disciplined. She has been working on her fitness and can really get round that park now."

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Wendy Lloyd: I'm really nervous for the girls- France will be fierce!

Nicola Field: Good luck to Jill Scott and the lionesses against France. Let's have it ladies!

Mark Hampson: Let's see if they can sing the national anthem better than the men as well.

They had better get those turnstiles ticking.

The two teams are out and La Marseillais is being belted out by the French...

Countdown to kick-off

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

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"Plenty of empty seats here yet there are two big queues outside the stadium."

There were a couple of what look like hi-tech lawnmowers skimming about on the Moncton Stadium surface.

But they are definitely not.

This World Cup is, somewhat controversially, being played on artificial surfaces.

That is a lot of rubber crumb being shaken out of socks.

Danny Mills

Former England defender on BBC Two

"England need a lot of belief and they will have worked with this 4-5-1 formation on the training ground.

"Technically, France are by far the better team, you have to try and nullify that. You can't just play them off the park. You will have to park the bus a little. When you play that defensively, it can come down to a lapse in concentration. It is tiring mentally.

"There is pressure on France to take the game to England. A point will be fantastic.

"This is the biggest stage, all media will be watching it and the ladies have a great opportunity which they need to take."

England midfielder Jill Scott: Thanks for all the messages! It's finally here our first World Cup game v France. Kick-off is 6pm English time BBC 2! Hope you can all tune in.

T minus 10 to kick-off.

BBC

Want all the all the goals, incident, stats, colour and general fun of this Women's World Cup in a super-concentrated easy-to-digest form straight to your tablet? Or PC or smartphone for that matter?

We have just the prescription for you. A new Womens' World Cup Catch-Up is on the iPlayer every day and will definitely not cause drowsiness. Enjoy.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Hearnsolo: England's women play football consistently with a passion the men lack. They deserve every support. C'mon Lionesses!

Dan Jones: Good luck England, got you down for a 1-0 win. You can do it.

Scott: Good too see both Williams & Chapman playing together! Great line up.

"I've got to wait in for the gas man."

"The pet hamster has passed away."

"My other half accidentally painted the front door shut."

All pretty poor excuses for missing work. "I'm playing in a World Cup" would seem stronger, but as England assistant head coach Marieanne Spacey explained to BBC Sport, it almost didn't cut the mustard when she was preparing to play in England's first World Cup in 1995.

It was a very different world for England's women players back then with minimal support, preparation and coverage.

But the class of 2015 don't get a pair of shorts as snazzy as these do they?

Getty Images

Marieanne Spacey (left) playing for England against Iceland in 1992

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

@viewfromadaddy

View From A Daddy: We're ready to cheer on England!

Where are you watching?

Bunting up? Drinks on ice? Stocked to the gunnels with savoury snacks?

This edition of the Women's World Cup is being beamed out to a potential television audience of one billion people.

If you are one of those who will be tuning in, BBC World want to hear from you.

The Have Your Say section are collecting snaps and stories from around the world.

@carlytelford1

England and Notts County goalkeeper Carly Telford: You have a dream....and if you want it enough you can make it happen. Don't let anyone or anything stop you!

Former England defender Danny Mills on BBC Two

"It is vital England start well. They are playing the group favourites but losing will put them on the back foot. I think it will be a cagey affair."

Marta v Ji So-Yun

Getty Images

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo never got to lock horns on the same pitch at Brazil 2014.

However, two players who have been likened to the world's best men are thrown together in the group stages later tonight.

In the CR7 corner: Brazil's Marta - the joint leading scorer at the Women's World Cup with 14 goals - is a regular alongside Ronaldo at the top table of Fifa's annual big bash having won the women's world player of the year award five times.

Representing Lionel: South Korea's Ji So-Yun has been nicknamed "Ji Messi" in her homeland after scoring her first international goal at 15 and was voted the PFA player of the year this season for her performances for Chelsea.

Learn more about the characters and clashes that will decide the tournament in our Women's World Cup guide.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

Kayleigh Churchyard: Just a point would be great against France. Going to be a tough game for the England ladies!

Ben Taylorson: Come on England! Do yourselves proud.

Ashleigh Head: Come on girls - bring that trophy home.

Let us know on #bbcfootball, on the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages and 81111 on text.

EPA

England manager Mark Sampson speaking to BBC Sport: "I'm focused on the team, it is the biggest day in a lot of our players' careers and we are excited by the challenge. And what a challenge it is -playing against this wonderful French team, one of the tournament favourites."

Suits you Sir...

Reuters

Double-breasted? A rolled collar? A playful hint of wrist?

It certainly suits Everton manager Roberto Martinez, but Mark Sampson, who was a coach at Swansea during the Spaniard's time in south Wales, is more of an anorak man apparently.

"He watched so much football - any match around the world, he would know about it," Corinne Yorston, who played under Sampson for Bristol Academy, told BBC Sport.

"He was always showing us video clips of different teams - Borussia Dortmund were a favourite - and would show us how he wanted us to adopt those philosophies in our game."

Learn more about the 32-year-old Welshman at England's helm.

Getty Images

BBC

Manchester City defender Steph Houghton is winning her 54th England cap but the 27-year-old has some serious work to do if she is to catch Liverpool midfielder Fara Williams, who is making her 140th appearance for her country.

Manchester United defender Phil Jones: Best of luck to the England women's team in their first game at the @FIFAWWC.

Arsenal defender Calum Chambers: Good luck to England women's football team later against France!

"This is it!"

@toni_duggan

It seems ages ago since England's World Cup qualifying campaign started with a 6-0 thrashing of Belarus at Bournemouth's Dean Court in September 2013.

More than 50 goals scored and just one conceded in qualifying - now it is time for the real thing.

And Manchester City striker Toni Duggan clearly cannot wait to get the campaign in Canada under way judging by her tweet earlier today.

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You can watch the match live on the BBC Sport website and BBC Two, whose coverage starts in a few moments at 17:30 BST.

Jacqui Oatley will lead the TV coverage with guests including Arsenal and England midfielder Rachel Yankey, Liverpool striker Natasha Dowie and former Manchester City and England defender Danny Mills.

Click at the top to get the pictures rolling.

Join the debate at #bbcfootball

You have been getting itchy on your voting fingers, telling us how far you think England will go in the tournament.

Time for some explanation.

Do England lack the experience to trouble the top guns? Or do you think that the pace and goals of Eni Aluko could see the Lionesses go all the way?

Let us know on #bbcfootball, on the BBC Sport Facebook and Google+ pages and 81111 on text.

Countdown to kick-off

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"England haven't beaten France since 1974 but in contrast to their last match of Euro 2013 against Les Bleues, they don't need to today. England were mauled 3-0 two years ago, but with other Group F rivals Mexico and Colombia ranked well below England, head coach Mark Sampson may primarily choose to avoid defeat.

"Word from my French colleagues on L'Equipe newspaper is that Marie Laure Delie's omission is because she has been coming back from a knee injury and has had some private problems at her club, Paris St-Germain."

On the wireless

BBC Radio 5 live

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Caroline Barker will be presenting BBC Radio 5 live's coverage from Moncton from 17:55 BST. The commentator is Ian Brown with former England keeper Rachel Brown-Finnis.

Click on the 'Live coverage' tab to listen.

How it works

BBC

England and France are in Group F, which is completed by Colombia and Mexico.

Things should get a little easier for England after tonight's game. While France are ranked third in the world, Mexico, who England play on 13 June, and Colombia, who they meet on 17 June, are 25th and 28th respectively.

If the group goes according to those rankings, England - ranked sixth in the world - will pick up one of two automatic qualification spots for the last 16.

If they end up third in the standings, they could yet make the next round. But only if they have a better record than the third-placed team in Groups B and E.

And no wants to be digging around for goal-difference calculations.

The only show in town

@Tony_Leighton

Women's football reporter Tony Leighton: Moncton's ready, England & France are ready, let's go #WWC2015 Group F - 2pm local time, 6pm UK - come on England!

Countdown to kick-off

@katiegbbc

BBC Sport's Katie Gornall: Game day! England and France players have been out on the turf. Now just waiting for fans to arrive in the stadium.

Countdown to kick-off

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

Getty Images

"The wind has got up here in Moncton this morning. Not sure how it will affect England's play but it might make it difficult for defenders to judge any long balls. The artificial pitches have already given an advantage to attackers in this tournament as the ball can stick quite well when it is played over the top."

Countdown to kick-off

@katiegbbc

BBC Sport's Katie Gornall: There's only one main entrance at Moncton Stadium and the queues are loooooong.

Goals, goals, goals

Getty Images

Kick-off in England's opening match against one of the tournament favourites is a little over 45 minutes away in the Canadian city of Moncton.

Mark Sampson's side are relatively late to the party with eight games - and 33 goals - already notched up in the tournament.

The best bits so far have included an humdinging 3-3 draw between Sweden and Nigeria last night and an ominous 10-0 tanking of the Ivory Coast by defending champions Germany.

Goal-scoring wise think more Brazil 2014 than Italia 90.

Vote

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Will England's lionesses roar at the Women's World Cup?

We want to know how far you think Mark Sampson's team will go in the tournament. You can vote via the BBC Sport website or by replying to @BBCSport using one of the following hashtags - #groupstages #roundof16 #quarterfinals #semifinals #thirdplaceplayoff #final #winners.

Votes close at 18:30 BST.

BreakingBreaking team news

France have left out striker Marie Laure Delie - scorer of 58 goals in 86 games for Les Blues - with Juvisy's Gaetane Thiney preferred up front.

France starting XI: Bouhaddi, Renard (c), Boulleau, Georges, Henry, Houara, Le Sommer, Abily, Thomis, Necib, Thiney

BreakingBreaking team news

Alistair Magowan

BBC Sport in Moncton

"Interesting team from Mark Sampson as England look to contain threat of France's pacy right winger Elodie Thomis. There are five changes to the team which lost to Canada in their final friendly, with defender Lucy Bronze starting on the left of midfield in a 4-5-1. Ellen White will play on the left, while Fara Williams will sit behind Jill Scott and Katie Chapman. Eni Aluko starts up front."

England starting XI: Bardsley, Scott, Rafferty, Williams, Houghton (c), Bassett, Scott, Aluko, Bronze, Chapman, White

Getty Images

First, some numbers.

Four years ago, three-two up in a shoot-out, two penalties left for both teams and a first-ever last-four spot within reach.

That was the situation the last time England played France at the Women's World Cup.

But misses from Claire Rafferty and Faye White - combined with successful conversions from their French counterparts - ensured that it all eventually totted up to another quarter-final exit for England.

Tonight they start their 2015 campaign against the same opponents. Can they find the right answer this time around?