Clinton, Russo, Mead, Carter, and Daly all contributed to the scoresheet as the lionesses achieved a significant victory in Marbella. This first match of 2024 proved to be a turning point for Sarina Wiegman’s team, allowing them to move on from the frustrations of 2023 and prepare for the Euro 2025 qualifiers later this year. Even with the added comfort of Virginia Kirchberger, the team’s success was a collective effort.
England defeats Austria 7-2 in friendly with goals from Clinton, Russo, and Mead.

Clinton, a 20-year-old midfielder from Man Utd who is currently on loan at Tottenham, seized the opportunity and delivered an outstanding performance in a wet Marbella. She entered the game after Lauren Hemp’s center and quickly scored a goal inside the post.

England were already trailing by one goal, as Russo was the first to react and score off the rebound from Mead’s cross-field shot within the first three minutes of the game.

The fast beginning was hindered when Virginia Kirchberger took Austria’s initial corner after thirty minutes, also scoring a late consolation goal with her head. However, England’s reaction to this initial setback was impressive and Mead responded swiftly.

England’s ball retrieval at the top of the field led to Russo’s second goal of the night, further highlighting the European champion’s dominance. The pressure continued in the second half, culminating in a spectacular fifth goal by Jess Carter.

Mead and Rachel Daly scored on the counter-attack in a late burst of goals, following Kirchberger’s second of the night. This gave Wiegman something to consider during training before England’s upcoming friendly against Italy on Tuesday.

However, following a disappointing 2023 where England suffered defeat in the Women’s World Cup Final and failed to qualify for the Olympics due to their performance in the Nations League, this win and display were a much-needed morale boost. The qualification for Euro 2025 will come later in the year.

Wiegman on Kelly, Kirby injuries

Wiegman successfully executed her plans for this Match as Chloe Kelly was unable to play due to a tap-in and Fran Kirby had to warm up.

The England manager stated that Chloe’s condition is improving. We are currently looking into her situation and are optimistic that she will return on Tuesday. During the pre-game preparations, Fran experienced some discomfort in her knee and in these situations, I will not risk anyone’s health. We will assess her condition on Saturday. She was prepared to play but unfortunately had to withdraw, so she is understandably disappointed.

How England overtook Austria Sept…

Neither of these teams will participate in the Olympics, but England’s exceptional skill was evident from the start as Mead quickly entered the penalty area and pressured Austria and Arsenal goalkeeper Manuela Zinsberger, causing her to deflect the ball towards the advancing Russian.

He scored his second goal from the opposite center, easily getting past his defender before passing the ball to Clinton for a score. It was a fantastic beginning to his debut for the England team, as the young players were in awe when she struck the ball against the crossbar early in the game in front of the small audience in Southern Spain.

Wiegman: It looked easy, but we played very well

Sarina Wiegman, the England Manager, expressed to ITV Sport her satisfaction with the match. She praised the team’s performance, their intentions, and their dominance on the pitch. The defense effectively pressed high and focused on winning the ball, allowing them to control the game for the majority of the match.

We netted a total of seven goals, showcasing our strong performance and generating numerous chances. While I am content with all seven goals, there are minor details that may not meet our satisfaction. Unfortunately, we allowed two goals from corner kicks, which we aim to avoid on Tuesday. There is always room for improvement and growth.

Clinton had a fantastic beginning, playing exceptionally well. Her performance in training was impressive and she seemed to be enjoying herself. I am pleased for her as this was a great goal.

We have our sights set on the future. While the Nations League and not qualifying for the Olympics may be disappointing, our goal is to compete in major tournaments. Although we were all let down by these results, we must move forward and work to improve. Today’s friendly matches allow us to test out different players and formations. Our upcoming match against Italy will be a tough one. After that, our focus will shift to the Euro qualifiers and the EURO tournament next year.

All of the new players performed admirably. At times, it appeared effortless for them, but our team played exceptionally. Austria is a formidable opponent and we did not allow them much room. When we did, they posed a threat. Each individual contributed on the field.

Clinton: dreams are made of it

Newcomer and English goal-scorer Grace Clinton on Sky Sports: “It’s a dream come true. I can hardly believe it, but I’m overjoyed. She mentioned trying me in a new position this week, but the encouragement from the team really boosted my performance.”

She stated to ITV Sport: “Without a doubt [the most significant moment of my professional journey] was when I entered the match, which was arguably the most important game of my career thus far. To have it end like this, I am extremely pleased.”

The competition is fierce with a multitude of talented players on the team. Being in her presence is an incredible opportunity. Participating in such a competitive environment is the ultimate goal.