England 3-4 Germany
by Ruby Vince (25/10/24)
Above: The Lionesses thank the fans after their defeat. Photo: Lionesses on X
Germany’s Giulia Gwinn struck twice in a breathless first half as Germany held off a late England resurgence at Wembley.
The visitors narrowly claimed victory in a dramatic 4-3 encounter against England at Wembley. A flurry of early goals and a resilient defence helped Germany edge England in a match that showcased the tactical depth and determination of both teams. Ultimately, Germany’s early advantage and decisive finishing proved too much for England to overcome.
Why were Germany so successful?
Germany came out strong, putting England under intense pressure from the start. Within the first two minutes, Germany struck with Gwinn’s penalty, setting England back on their heels. Just eight minutes later, a second goal further deflated England, giving Germany a commanding lead that dictated the pace of the game. By pressing high and fast, Germany’s attackers forced England’s defence into quick decisions, often creating gaps that allowed players like Bühl and Gwinn to slip through with ease. Their high press was relentless, constantly closing down England’s passing lanes and forcing mistakes.
Germany’s compact midfield also played a crucial role, especially in blocking England’s attempts to play through the middle. This forced England to rely more on the wings, which proved challenging given Germany’s disciplined defensive setup. Even after conceding three goals, Germany’s defence maintained its shape, managing to handle England’s aerial threats and set pieces effectively. Ann-Katrin Berger’s strong performance in goal, along with the backline’s timely tackles and clearances, kept the Lionesses’ at bay, especially as the pressure ramped up in the second half.
Impact of Stanway and Gwinn
Stanway was pivotal for England’s attacking game, often driving forward and keeping Germany’s defenders on high alert. She was key in turning England’s momentum, especially with her two goals that came in quick succession. Her goal from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute, followed by another just two minutes later, temporarily shifted the momentum back to England, keeping their hopes alive. Stanway frequently found gaps in Germany’s high defensive line, using her speed and awareness to exploit any hesitation. Her powerful shots tested Berger and highlighted her ability to challenge even a solid German defence.
On Germany’s side, Gwinn was a standout, marking her influence early with two quick goals that set the pace of the match. Her first goal set the tone, and her second showcased her precision and positioning. Beyond her finishing ability, Gwinn’s role extended to linking up plays from midfield and consistently applying pressure on England’s backline. Gwinn’s relentless energy and clinical finishing made her a constant threat, one that England’s defence struggled to manage throughout the game.
What Could England Have Done?
England’s defence struggled to handle Germany’s fast, aggressive start, leaving gaps that players like Gwinn and Bühl quickly exploited. A more compact defensive setup could have limited Germany’s space, especially in the first half, as Germany’s high press kept England in catch-up mode. Adjusting sooner to Germany’s tempo might have helped England find their feet.
In attack, England showed promise with quick transitions and set-piece opportunities, but Germany’s compact defence often neutralised their efforts. Playing wider and moving the ball faster could have forced Germany to spread out, creating openings for England’s midfield.
Ultimately, while England’s persistence brought them close to a comeback, Germany’s well-executed high-press tactics and their ability to control the game’s tempo proved decisive. Germany’s early lead and consistent disruption of England’s play allowed them to maintain control, edging out a thrilling contest that saw both teams showcase their strengths.
Teams: ENGLAND (4-3-3): Hampton, Bronze, Bright, Williamson, Carter, Stanway, Toone, Walsh, Mead, Russo, Hemp. Substitutes: Beever-Jones, Clinton, Earps, Greenwood, Kelly, Le Tissier, Moorhouse, Morgan, Naz, Park, Parker.
Scorers: Stanway 33′ pen, 36’, Bronze 81’.
GERMANY (4-2-3-1): Berger, Linder, Minge, Doorson, Gwinn, Senß, Dallmann, Bühl, Nüsken, Brand, Hoffmann. Substitutes: Anymoi, Cerci, Däbritz, Endemann, Grâwe, Johannes, Kleinherne, Lohmann, Rauch, Winkler, Wolter
Scorers: Gwinn 4′ pen, 11’, Bühl 29’, Däbritz 72′.
Referee: Marta Huerta De Aza.
Attendance: 47,967.
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