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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Tom Garry in Geneva

Long balls, set pieces and brilliant Bronze: how England can improve against Italy

Leah Williamson, late substitutions and Georgia Stanway.
Leah Williamson’s long passes, late substitutions and Georgia Stanway’s shooting are all areas where England can improve. Composite: Guardian Picture Desk

For all the well-deserved praise England have received since Thursday’s victory over Sweden, relating to their never-say-die attitude, spirited comeback and the gamechanging impact of their substitutes, it should not be forgotten that the defending champions are lucky still to be in Euro 2025.

The Lionesses were somewhat fortunate that Sweden failed to convert two penalties to win the contest and England will know they need to make notable improvements if they are to progress past Italy and reach a third consecutive major tournament final. Here are six areas in which the players and Sarina Wiegman must do better.

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