Mary Earps in action during England's October matches against Germany and South Africa.

Mary Earps Shines: Winners and Losers from England's October Camp

Assessing the Lionesses' Recent Performances: An England Camp Review

It has been an eventful period for the England Women's National Team, the Lionesses, who have recently qualified for the 2025 UEFA Women’s European Championship. This opens up opportunities for friendly matches aimed at refining their skills and addressing areas for improvement under head coach Sarina Wiegman. However, the latest round of matches has raised some concerns.

Disappointment Against Germany

On Friday, England faced a tough challenge against Germany, resulting in a 4-3 defeat. This match was particularly troubling, as it marked the first time in nearly a decade that the Lionesses conceded three goals before the 30-minute mark. Such defensive lapses are alarming and might indicate deeper issues within the squad.

Mixed Results Against South Africa

In contrast, when England met South Africa just four days later, they demonstrated signs of resilience and quality. Although they secured a 2-1 victory, the match highlighted similar defensive frailties. After leading 2-0 at halftime, a critical error allowed South Africa to reduce the deficit, showcasing the need for more concentration in defensive situations.

Bright Spots: The Rising Stars

Despite the challenges, there were positives for Sarina Wiegman to consider. Notably, young talent Grace Clinton showed promise and potential, making a compelling case for her inclusion in future lineups. Her performance might symbolize the infusion of youth and dynamism needed for the Lionesses.

Concerns Ahead of the European Championship

As attention turns to the upcoming European Championship title defense, it is evident that the recent camp generated more questions than answers. With defensive organization and consistency in focus, Wiegman and her coaching staff will need to address the weaknesses revealed during these matches. The friendly format offers a crucial opportunity to experiment and solidify strategies ahead of the competition.

Conclusion: Looking Forward

The recent matches have underscored the necessity for the England squad to refine their tactics and improve their defensive coordination. As the team prepares for the European Championship, the combination of seasoned players and emerging talent like Grace Clinton may be vital for their success. Continued evaluation and realignment of their strategies in friendly matches will prove essential as the Lionesses aim for glory on the European stage.

Back to blog

Leave a comment