It was in the 16th minute that Fran Kirby nicely played forward Beth Mead who lifted it over the Austrian star goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger.

Back Carina Wenninger tried to kick the ball away at the goal line, but then it would turn out that it was already inside.

It took a while before the English home supporters could celebrate, but in the end the goal was approved after video review.

At the end of the half, Lauren Hemp got a great chance, but then Zinsberger saved nicely.

The second half was relatively uneventful, although England dictated the pace.

The match ended 1-0 and a top-tipped England got the start they wanted at the championship.

The premiere also meant a new audience record for the European Championships on the women's side.

The official audience figure landed at 68,871.

Tomorrow, the other two teams in group A will meet when Norway and Northern Ireland meet.