England delivered a commanding performance with a 7-0 win over Jamaica in their final warm-up game before the European Championship. With their title defence set to begin in six days against France in Zurich, this match served as the last chance for Sarina Wiegman to fine-tune her squad in a match environment. The dominant display provided plenty of positives, with Ella Toone scoring twice and Lauren James making a bright return from injury.
The atmosphere at the King Power Stadium was electric as fans gathered to send the team off in style. Wiegman opted for a starting XI that closely resembled her likely lineup for the tournament, favouring match sharpness over experimentation. Jess Carter started at left-back ahead of Niamh Charles, Beth Mead got the nod over Chloe Kelly on the right wing, and Toone was chosen in the No 10 role ahead of Grace Clinton. Lauren James began on the bench as she continues her recovery, but made a strong impact when introduced.
Toone opened the scoring early, capitalising on a loose ball at the edge of the area and finishing with composure. Her celebration, a kiss to her hands and a gesture to the sky, was a heartfelt tribute to her late father. England’s second came through Lucy Bronze, who met Carter’s cross with a powerful header. Toone added a third before halftime, curling in her second goal of the match following determined work from Bronze.
The second half brought more of the same. Georgia Stanway made it 4-0 just before the hour mark after persistent pressure in the box. Wiegman then made a series of changes, including the introduction of James, who quickly made an impact. Playing in a central attacking role, she clipped a precise ball to Alessia Russo, who nodded home England’s fifth.
Further substitutions brought energy and inspiration. Esme Morgan, Charles, and Clinton added to the fluidity, while Beever-Jones turned in a cross from Charles to make it six. In stoppage time, Mead found the net after a well-worked move with Kelly, capping off a clinical team performance.
While Jamaica posed little threat and saw a rare goal ruled out for offside interference, England showed discipline and quality throughout. The result may not reflect the challenges that lie ahead against tougher opponents like France and the Netherlands, but it showcased a team in form, full of attacking options and growing cohesion. The Lionesses look well-prepared as they head to Switzerland with confidence and momentum.
