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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Sophie Downey at Wembley

Wiegman must address careless midfield if England are to retain title

England players applaud supporters following the Euro 2025 qualifying draw with Sweden.
England players applaud the fans after the disappointing draw with Sweden. Photograph: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian

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.

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