Wiegman must address careless midfield if England are to retain title | Sophie Downey

06/04/2024 01:20

Keira Walsh and Georgia Stanway have off nights for European Championship holders in draw against Sweden at Wembley

Sarina Wiegman's side were given plenty to think about by Sweden who, despite lacking in possession of the ball and having only one shot on target – Fridolina Rolfö's 64th-minute equaliser – stretched the reigning European champions' defence throughout. It is a display that will have caused slight consternation in the England camp about how easily Sweden were able to break through as their Euro 2025 qualification campaign got off to a stuttering start.

Wiegman and her assistant Arjan Veurink will have lots to ponder over the next few days fully in the knowledge that the Lionesses must improve defensively. They have been arguably drawn in the toughest qualification group and cannot afford to drop off or lose momentum in games like they did on this occasion if they are to progress directly to next summer's tournament.