England women lose to Brazil in first match since Euro 2025 triumph

LONDON – England’s women lost 2-1 to Brazil in their first match since their European Championship victory in a friendly on Oct 25, with Bia Zanaratto and Dudinha scoring for the South American team, who were reduced to 10 players in the first half.

Brazil, who successfully defended their Women’s Copa America crown in August, were impressive from the opening whistle and Zanaratto scored in the ninth minute when she flicked the ball past Jess Carter before tucking the ball into the bottom corner.

It is the fourth game in a row where the Lionesses have conceded the game’s opening goal.

Said manager Sarina Wiegman: “We start slow and we make these mistakes. If I knew why, I would have solved it straight away.”

Dudinha capitalised on an England defensive blunder in the 18th minute when Ella Toone’s turnover allowed the visitors to attack three-on-two, and Dudinha slotted the ball in off the near post at Etihad Stadium in Manchester.

Brazil were down to 10 players in the 21st minute when Toone was one-on-one with Brazil’s goalkeeper Lorena and captain Angelina clipped her from behind.

“It’s two different stories – before the red card and after the red card,” said Brazil coach Arthur Elias.

“The game plan at 2-0 was very well executed away from home against a great opponent – England, who are two-time European champions.

“They knew how to carry out what we trained and planned for the game. Of course, after the red card there was resilience and maximum effort. You have to have that in this national team – spirit and dedication.”

England grew into the game and Georgia Stanway pulled one back from the penalty spot in the 52nd minute, awarded after a tackle on Beth Mead, and slotted a firm shot into the corner.

“What was missing, I think, is the final part,” said Wiegman. “Of course, they were tough in defending. They have some very physical players.

“We were sometimes a bit unlucky, but also sometimes in decision-making, we could do better.

“I think the learning we take from this is get the final third, how can we create even more and get the final details right in execution and decision-making.”

England host Australia in Derby in the second game of their “homecoming” series on Oct 28.

The Matildas were also in action on Oct 25, beating Wales 2-1 at the Cardiff City Stadium as the home side bade farewell to legend Jess Fishlock after her 166th and final international appearance.

Courtney Nevin had given Australia the lead midway through the first half, before a memorable first international goal from 18-year-old Mared Griffiths tied up proceedings 10 minutes into the second half.

But there was no fairy-tale ending for 38-year-old midfielder Fishlock as Caitlin Foord struck the Matildas’ winner five minutes from time.

“I love being Welsh,” Fishlock told the crowd after the match. “I don’t want to be sad about it because I’ve had the best time ever.” REUTERS