The defence comes good
There were concerns about England’s backline before the start of the World Cup, with the Euro 2022 captain, Leah Williamson, out injured and Millie Bright not having played a competitive game since March because of a knee injury. Conversely, England’s defensive stability has been a highlight of their campaign. Sarina Wiegman’s side have conceded only twice in normal time and the decision to switch to a back three, utilising the forward-thinking Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly as wing-backs, has proved a masterstroke. The three centre-backs – Jess Carter, Millie Bright and Alex Greenwood – have been superb, with Carter probably England’s best one v one defender during the tournament and Bright a rock with the capacity to push forward through the middle. However, Greenwood’s performances warrant extra praise. The left-footed former full-back has arguably been England’s best player. She has completed more successful passes and more attacking passes than any other player in the tournament. What a difference from a year ago when she was forced on to the bench during the Euros as the partnership between Williamson and Bright blossomed.
