The Lionesses dominated most of the game, but they only won 1-0, with Beth Mead score in the first half.
England had chances to calm the game, with Alessia Russo and Ellen White guilty of missing chances, but head coach Sarina Wiegman is happy to start the tournament with a win.
The Lionesses are now at the top of Group A and will be in action on Monday night, when they face Norway.
Simon Collings was at Old Trafford to lead the lordship of the Lionesses…
Mary Earps 6
A straightforward evening for the goalkeeper, who had little to do. Made a great save late to deny Barbara Dunst.
Lucy Bronze 8
Showed her quality with an excellent performance as a right back. Caused problems in the future and was solid on defense.
Millie Bright 8
I didn’t put a foot wrong all night, really. Made some crucial blocks and headers when Austria did get crosses into the penalty area.
Millie Bright hasn’t set foot wrong all night
† AFP via Getty ImagesLeah Williamson 6
Played in midfield under Wiegman, but was in defense tonight. Looked a little shaky at first but she calmed down and improved as the game progressed.
Rachel Daly 6
A solid display from the left-back, who was neat on the ball. Debate will be whether Wiegman wants a natural left foot to play there instead.
Keira Walsh 7
She shot some fine passes, especially in the first half, when she tried to dominate possession. A strong start to the tournament.
Georgia Stanway 8
Provides beams of energy in midfield and covered a lot of ground. Went close to opening Austria with a few mazy runs.
Beth Mead 7
Has been in glowing form for Arsenal and has continued to do so here. Took her aim very well by licking the keeper.
Fran Kirby 8 | star woman
England’s best player and very impressive in a free role off White. Created England’s goal with a nice pass and looked sharp all night.
Lauren Hemp 6
Full run and England offered a direct approach to wide. Put in some dangerous crosses and could have easily got an assist.
Ellen White 5
England’s number 9 is usually so deadly in front of goal, but she had a rough night against Austria. In the first half, she missed a glorious opportunity when she headed wide.
bills
Ella Toon (Kirby 63′) 6
Up for Kirby and had some great moments as the No10. Will be a convenient option from the couch.
Chloe Kelly (Mead 64′) 6
Came up and operated right and left. Fired just wide with an attempt from outside the box.
Alessia Russo (White 64′) 6
Looked lively from the bench but lost a good chance to make it 2-0.
Subs not used: Greenwood, Carter, Hampton, Stokes, Scott, Parris, England, Roebuck, Wubben-Moy