In France, England got their highly anticipated Euro 2016 campaign underway against Russia. The selection headaches that have tormented Three Lions manager Roy Hodgson have been well documented and he was never going to please everyone.

MARSEILLE, June 12, 2016 (Xinhua) -- Players of Russia celebrate after the Euro 2016 Group B soccer match between Russia and England in Marseille, France, June 11, 2016. The match ended with a 1-1 draw. (Xinhua/Zhang Fan)

Captain Wayne Rooney would be played in midfield while five Tottenham players got the start, leaving Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy on the bench as England chased their first ever opening game win at the European continental competition.

The Three Lions create a succession of chances in the first half but Russian keeper Igor Akinfeev thwarts Rooney and Adam Lallana.

It would not be until the 73rd minute when the English are able to break through against the injury depleted Russians. A free kick on the edge of the area is surprisingly taken by Eric Dier who fires through a hole in the wall created by Gary Cahill to score into the top of the net.

But Russia refuse to throw in the towel and they get even in injury time when Vasili Berezutski rises highest over Danny Rose to direct a looping header past Joe Hart in the England goal. 1-1 is the final score leaving England to rue missed opportunities.

MARSEILLE, June 12, 2016 (Xinhua) -- Danny Rose (L) of England vies with Artem Dzyuba of Russia during the Euro 2016 Group B soccer match between Russia and England in Marseille, France, June 11, 2016. (Xinhua/Tao Xiyi)