England Women’s Euro 2022 campaign got off to a winning start when they defeated Austria 1-0 in the opening match of the tournament.
For a record attendance at Old Trafford, the Three Lionesses were forced to work for the win by a stubborn Austrian team, with both sides struggling to generate meaningful chances in the opening stages of the match.
But in the 16th minute the deadlock was broken when Beth Mead brilliantly controlled a pass from Fran Kirby before bellowing goalkeeper Manuel Zinsberger, the ball crossing the line just in time for an Austrian defender to hack it away.
The game then opened, but England were frustrated in the first half when Ellen White missed two great header opportunities, while Lauren Hemp had a well saved shot from close range.
The second half proved to be a similar affair with the hosts controlling the pace of the game but unable to extend their lead, with Chloe Kelly hitting just wide after an excellent counterattack.
It was a solid defensive job from Austria, who always looked dangerous but lacked much creativity in the final third, while England goalkeeper Mary Earps was largely unchallenged.
While not the most spectacular of results, it was a great win for Sarina Wiegman’s squad to build on, with their next Group A game against Norway on Monday.
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