England were held to an entertaining goalless draw with Olympic champions USA at Wembley as they ramp up preparations for next summer’s Euros title defence.
The Lionesses were on the back foot for the majority of the game but reduced their hosts to half chances as Rose Lavelle and Lindsey Horan, among others, tested Mary Earps, but never at full stretch.
What will have impressed Sarina Wiegman most was England’s ability to stay defensively resolute when faced with the pace and athleticism of the four-time World Cup winners, who remain unbeaten under Emma Hayes.
Their work at the opposite end wasn’t quite as assured or fluid as it’s been in the past, but Wiegman will take solace from a commendable shutout – their first of 2024 – particularly after conceding four against Germany on a punishing night in late October.
Maturity of defensive display impresses Wiegman
England manager Sarina Wiegman speaking on ITV:
“Very intense game at the very highest level. We were more mature than the last time we played at Wembley. As a team we defended really well. We had moments we could press in the second half, I would like more of that.
“The final pass to get behind we lost too quick. This game gives us information, that’s what we wanted. We’re trying out things and they challenged us. As a team we did well to recognise moments, tactically the team were really connected.
“There is big competition in the squad. Mary Earps absolutely showed up today. We’re learning things. This shows that we need to improve things, this is good, but we want to be better again.”
