Rewritten text:
During a significant win for the lionesses in Marbella, Clinton, Russo, Mead, Carter, and Daly all make it onto the scoresheet. This first match of 2024 proves to be a turning point for Sarina Wiegman’s team, helping them move past the frustrations of 2023 before the Euro 2025 qualifiers later this year. Despite the comfort provided by Virginia Kirchberger, the team is able to secure a much-needed victory.
England defeats Austria 7-2 in friendly match with goals from Clinton, Russo, and Mead.
Clinton, a 20-year-old midfielder from Man Utd who is currently on loan at Tottenham, took advantage of her opportunity with an outstanding display in a wet Marbella. She entered the game after Lauren Hemp’s shot hit the post and quickly made an impact.
At that point, England had already conceded a goal, as Russo was the first to react and score off the rebound from Mead’s cross-field shot from a short distance, with only three minutes gone in the game.
England’s initial momentum was disrupted when Virginia Kirchberger earned Austria’s first corner after 30 minutes, resulting in a late consolation goal from her header. However, England’s reaction to this setback was impressive and Mead responded swiftly.
Russo’s second goal of the night – thanks to England gaining possession at the top of the field – emphasized the superiority of the European champion, who continued to apply pressure in the second half until Jess Carter scored a fantastic fifth goal.
Mead and Rachel Daly scored on the counter-attack in a late burst of goals, following Kirchberger’s second of the night. This gave Wiegman something to consider during training before England’s friendly against Italy on Tuesday.
However, following a disappointing 2023, where England suffered defeat in the Women’s World Cup Final and failed to qualify for the Olympics due to their performance in the Nations League, this win and display were a much-needed morale boost. The upcoming Euro 2025 qualification later this year will be the next focus.
Wiegman on Kelly, Kirby injuries
Wiegman successfully executed her plans for this Match as Chloe Kelly was unable to play due to a tap-in and Fran Kirby had to warm up.
The England manager stated that Chloe’s condition is improving. We are currently looking into her situation and are optimistic that she will return on Tuesday. During the pre-game warm-up, Fran experienced some discomfort in her knee and in these situations, I will not risk anyone’s health. We will assess her condition on Saturday. She was prepared to play but unfortunately had to withdraw, so she is understandably disappointed.
How England overtook Austria Sept…
Neither of these teams will participate in the Olympics, however, England’s exceptional skill was evident from the start as Mead quickly entered the penalty area and pressured Austria and Arsenal goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger, causing her to deflect the ball towards the advancing Russian player.
He scored his second goal from the opposite center, with Hemp easily passing his defender before passing the ball to Clinton for a score. It was a fantastic beginning to his debut for England’s young team, as the small audience in Southern Spain watched in awe as she hit the crossbar with a shot soon after the game began.
Wiegman: It looked easy, but we played very well
Sarina Wiegman, the England Manager, expressed to ITV Sport her satisfaction with the match. She praised the team’s style of play, their intentions, and their desire to dominate the field. The defense aggressively pressed and strived to gain possession, ultimately executing their game plan. This was successfully executed for the majority of the game.
We were able to score seven impressive goals and generate numerous chances. While I am pleased with all seven goals, there are minor details that may not have met our satisfaction. Unfortunately, we allowed two goals from corner kicks, which we hope to avoid on Tuesday. There is always room for improvement and learning.
Clinton had a fantastic beginning, playing exceptionally well. Her training had paid off and she was thoroughly enjoying herself. I am delighted for her, as this was a great goal.
We are focused on the future. While it is disappointing to miss out on the Nations League and the Olympics, our goal is to compete in major tournaments. Although we are all disappointed, we must move forward and work towards improving. These friendly matches allow us to test many players and try out new combinations. Our next match against Italy will be a tough one. After that, our attention will turn to the Euro qualifiers and the EURO next year.
The new players performed admirably. It often appeared effortless for them, but our team played exceptionally. Austria is a formidable opponent and we did not allow them much room. However, when we did, they posed a threat. Each individual contributed on the field.
Clinton: dreams are made of it
Newcomer and top scorer in English, Grace Clinton, shares on Sky Sports: “It’s a dream come true. I can hardly believe it, but I’m overjoyed. She mentioned trying me in a new position this week, but the encouragement from the team really boosted me.”
She stated to ITV Sport: “Without a doubt, [the most significant moment of my professional journey] was when I entered the match. It was likely the most important game of my career thus far. To have it end like this, I am extremely pleased.”
It is a highly competitive environment with a multitude of talented players on the team. Being in her presence is an incredible opportunity. Competing in that setting is the ultimate goal.
