Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Football London
Football London
Sport
Paul Eddison

Lucy Bronze addresses what went wrong for England vs Czech Republic after USA win

Lucy Bronze admitted that England were not their usual clinical selves as they had to settle for a goalless draw against the Czech Republic in Brighton.

As the Barcelona full-back celebrated her 100th cap, she was at the heart of everything England did well, creating a number of chances, particularly in the first half.

But England were denied time and again by Czech keeper Olivie Lukasova, including one brilliant tip-over from Fran Kirby. On the two occasions they did get the better of Lukasova, England were denied by the post, full debutant Lauren James in the first half, imitated by Lauren Hemp in the second.

ALSO READ: Lucy Bronze celebrates milestone as Sarina Wiegman experiences Lionesses rarity

That meant only a second scoreless outing under coach Sarina Wiegman, four days after the momentous win over the USA, and there was disappointment for Bronze on her special night.

She said: “I don't think we were clinical enough. We did have a few chances, Hempo (Lauren Hemp) had one off the post, Fran (Kirby) got one tipped, so we had chances to score, we did play well in spells and I guess we're not really used to this team not being clinical because usually the goals just come flooding in for us.

“So it's disappointing, but at least we kept a clean sheet, that's the positive to take from it. We worked hard throughout until the very last minute but we're European champions, you've got to win games like that.”

James hit the post after just three minutes as England looked dangerous, while Bronze looked particularly threatening when combining with Chloe Kelly in the first half, and then her replacement Beth Mead in the second.

And while it did not result in a match-winner, the 30-year-old was still able to reflect on the latest chapter in a storied international career.

She added: "I think I can remember someone asking me after (my debut) what I would like to do with England. I think someone was stood with me who had won 100 caps and I said that would never happen for me. I just wanted to win something with England, and I've done both."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.