England delivered a solid performance with a 3-0 victory over Australia in an international friendly at Pride Park. Despite a dominant win, the match was marred by a serious knee injury to Michelle Agyemang, leaving her distraught as she was stretchered off late in the game.
The Lionesses were much improved from their recent defeat to Brazil, showing a more structured and controlled approach. The match saw debut appearances from Lucia Kendall and Taylor Hinds, with Kendall impressing in midfield. The young Southampton academy graduate was praised by manager Sarina Wiegman for her natural understanding of the game.
England took the lead in the 20th minute when Aggie Beever-Jones capitalized on a rebound after Lucy Bronze’s free-kick hit the wall. Moments later, Australia’s Alanna Kennedy was shown a red card for a foul on Alessia Russo, further tilting the game in England’s favor. Bronze extended the lead just before halftime, guiding home a pass from Ella Toone.
The match had a slower pace in the second half, as England comfortably controlled the game. Sam Kerr, Australia’s star forward, struggled to make an impact and was substituted in the 70th minute. Despite some experimental changes and a few injuries, England maintained their dominance and sealed the win with a late penalty from Georgia Stanway, awarded after Missy Bo Kearns was fouled in the box.
The victory, while comprehensive, was overshadowed by the concerning injury to Agyemang. The Brighton forward had been a late substitute but fell off the ball in an unfortunate incident, requiring immediate medical attention. With Beever-Jones also leaving the field due to injury, England played the final moments with 10 players on each side.
While the result will boost England’s confidence ahead of Euro 2025, the focus now shifts to Agyemang’s injury and whether it will affect her participation in the upcoming tournament.
