Euro 2025 qualifiers: England bounce back with win over Ireland | OneFootball

As the international break draws to a close, England took three points from the Republic of Ireland at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin.

The Lionesses bounced back from a frustrating draw against Sweden in their first Euro 2025 Qualifying match. Following their 1-1 draw at Wembley, Sarina Wiegman opted for some changes against Ireland.

A Lauren James goal followed by Alex Greenwood’s penalty takes England to four points in the Group A3 standings, while Ireland are yet to get off the mark.

Starting XIs

Republic of Ireland

Brosnan; Mannion, Hayes, Quinn, Patten, McCabe, Payne, O’Sullivan, Littlejohn, Quinn, Carusa

England

Hampton; Bronze, Williamson, Greenwood, Carter, Park, Walsh, Toone, James, Russo, Hemp

How it went

Despite a bright start for Ireland, James opened the scoring after just 12 minutes. A well-worked play from the Lionesses saw the ball fall to the Chelsea star at the back post, following a beautifully lofted pass from Keira Walsh. James made no mistake inside the box and tapped the ball beyond Courtney Brosnan.

Just seven minutes later, Greenwood doubled England’s lead, slotting the ball home from the penalty spot. The spot-kick had been awarded following a handball from Ruesha Littlejohn.

The Lionesses were awarded a second penalty after a second handball. Greenwood once again stepped up to the spot, however, her effort hit the post, sending the visitors in two goals ahead at the break.

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The second half brought a renewed Ireland side with numerous good chances coming for the hosts. Despite several defensive errors from the visitors, Vera Pauw’s side were unable to find a route back into the tie. The final 20 minutes of the tie demonstrated several key weaknesses in England’s game, with Ireland able to force the visitors back into their own half for long periods of time.

Up next

Ireland will next face Sweden at home as they look to get their first points on the board. England are up against group leaders France at St James’ Park in their bid to retain their European title.

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