England throw away lead against Portugal as second-half struggles continue under Wiegman.
England’s struggles continued in their Women’s Nations League opener as they squandered an early lead to draw 1-1 against Portugal, raising fresh concerns about their form with just five months until Euro 2025.
Alessia Russo’s 15th-minute strike put the Lionesses in control, but a sluggish second-half display allowed Portugal’s Kika Nazareth to equalise, leaving Sarina Wiegman’s side winless in four of their last six matches.
Despite their shaky performances, Wiegman insists England are “moving forwards”, dismissing concerns over their form. But defender Millie Bright was more candid, admitting there is “lots to work on” as England continue to struggle with consistency.
England looked dominant in the first half, controlling possession and pressing high despite the absence of key players like Georgia Stanway, Alex Greenwood, Beth Mead, and Lauren Hemp due to injury. Grace Clinton stepped into midfield seamlessly, while Lucy Bronze looked lively down the right flank.
However, they failed to extend their lead, a mistake that proved costly. Portugal, unbeaten in their last 10 matches, grew in confidence as England’s energy faded. Their high press exposed England’s defence, and the equaliser felt inevitable.
“We need to be more ruthless in front of goal,” Bright told BBC Radio 5 Live. “At 1-0, you keep a team in it. The longer it stays that way, the more they believe.”
This is not the first time England have collapsed in the second half. They suffered a 4-3 defeat to Germany in October, struggled to beat South Africa and Switzerland, and were held to a goalless draw by an understrength United States.
Yet, Wiegman remains unfazed.
“I’m not concerned,” she insisted. “It’s February, not July. If you look at the results, you might think we’re not improving, but our first-half performances show we are.”
England now face their toughest challenge yet: World Cup champions Spain at Wembley on Wednesday. With time running out before Euro 2025, the Lionesses must find consistency—or risk a disappointing title defence.
