Witnessing today’s warm-up match between England and Portugal was truly a pleasure. Although England showed immense promise with 22 shots throughout the game, their inability to convert them into goals left them feeling frustrated. Not only were their own mistakes to blame for their lack of goals, but the sturdy Portuguese defense also played a significant role, particularly with Borges’ clearance off the line. With this being England’s final game at home before their journey to Australia for the World Cup, they have one more game against Canada before the tournament officially kicks off on July 22nd against Haiti. For a detailed recap of today’s action, please refer to the report below. Stay tuned for more updates!
Now, let’s discuss England’s front line. In my opinion, Daly ought to start the next match, with England as her direct substitute for the game against Canada. It would be wise to give England more playing time, as she proved herself with an impressive 12 goals in 12 games for Tottenham after her move from Chelsea. Coach Wiegman is well aware of Russo’s potential, even though she hasn’t had many minutes under her leadership.
I was planning to share Borges’ incredible clearance off the line on Twitter, but unfortunately, my Twitter account is still not working. My apologies for the inconvenience, but I highly recommend searching for the footage as it is truly remarkable.
England forward Alessia Russo expressed her frustration in an interview with ITV, but she also acknowledged that there are many aspects they can build upon. She emphasizes that this is their first game back together, and despite their numerous missed opportunities, they aim to strengthen their connections. Russo remains confident that the team will be ready and firing come the World Cup. She also speaks highly of her teammates Rachel and Beth, acknowledging their outstanding seasons and expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to learn from them in their daily training sessions.
In my opinion, Beth England would have been a valuable addition to the match. Her presence on the field offers a slightly different dynamic compared to the other forwards. However, it is difficult to determine which player I would have replaced to accommodate her. England undeniably possesses an abundance of talent in their front line, and making such a selection call is undoubtedly challenging.
Speaking to ITV, Russo adds that England always starts by focusing on their own game plan before considering the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. Since this was the team’s first reunion since April, Russo believes they will adapt accordingly as they travel and prepare for their upcoming match against Canada.
England manager Sarina Wiegman expresses her disappointment in not scoring a goal but acknowledges the team’s improvement in the second half. She believes they played higher and quicker on the pitch, creating numerous opportunities. Wiegman notes that England forced Portugal to defend deeper but acknowledges that there is room for further improvement. She also commends Carter and Morgan for their composure and performance during the game.
As for the Player of the Match, Alessia Russo deserves recognition, although Lauren James or Lauren Hemp could have easily claimed the title.
Will Wiegman be concerned about her players’ inability to convert multiple chances, or will she focus more on the promising performances, such as Stanway’s excellent deliveries at set pieces? Share your thoughts with me via Twitter or email.
Full-time score: England 0-0 Portugal. This result brings great satisfaction for Portugal but leaves England feeling frustrated. Despite their numerous chances, they were unable to find the back of the net in front of a large crowd in Milton Keynes. However, there were some positive highlights in England’s play, particularly through James, Kelly, and Hemp. Nevertheless, the standout performance of the match goes to Portugal’s defense, with Borges’ clearance off the line being a standout moment.
Chloe Kelly graciously signs autographs for fans after the match.
Updated at 17.37 BST
In the 90+4th minute, Gomez receives a yellow card for fouling Russo, resulting in a free kick for England from a considerable distance. England tries to thread the ball through the team, but they are yet to enter the box.
In the 90+2nd minute, despite playing in Portugal’s half, England struggles to launch a cohesive attack, losing possession. However, J Silva almost manages to shoot.
At the 90th minute, Pereira experiences cramps and receives treatment. Although she seems fit enough to continue, five minutes are added to the game.
During the 89th minute, England is awarded a late corner, and the TV coverage showcases shots of Mead and Williamson in the stands. Zelem takes the corner, but Bronze fails to connect with the ball, and Pereira intercepts it in mid-air.
With an attendance of 26,227 at Stadium MK, will we witness a winning goal?
In the 85th minute, Charles’ cross goes straight out. England regains possession in a promising position but takes too long to set up an attack, allowing the defense to organize. Coombs attempts a shot from the box, but it is collected by Pereira. The game is now far from my initial prediction of 2-0!
Robinson makes a fantastic run in the 82nd minute, but her pass finds the feet of Portuguese defenders, thwarting her efforts. Unfortunately, things are not falling into place for England today, and my prediction feels like a distant memory.
England is awarded a free kick in the 68th minute, with Zelem delivering an excellent pass to Charles. She crosses it in, and Coombs tries to create an opportunity but takes a heavy touch, wasting the chance. An unfortunate collision occurs between Hemp and Norton, resulting in both players requiring treatment. Borges also falls, leading to a pause in play.
In the 67th minute, Hemp sends a cross into the box, but it has a bit too much pace on it. The ball goes out for a corner, and England throws everything they have at the game but fails to produce any results. As time ticks away, Portugal’s confidence in holding off the Euro champions continues to grow.
The match concludes with a final score of 0-0. Portugal celebrates a great result, while England is left frustrated after missing several opportunities in front of a substantial crowd in Milton Keynes. Notable performances by James, Kelly, and Hemp highlighted England’s play, but the standout moment of the match undoubtedly belonged to Portugal’s defense, with Borges’ goal-line clearance stealing the show.
Photograph: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Updated at 17.37 BST
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