Russo: 'We will reflect, learn and get ready to go again on Tuesday'

Alessia Russo stressed England’s players will ‘reflect and learn’ from their 1-1 draw with Sweden as they prepare for a ‘massive’ game in Dublin on Tuesday.

Russo gave the Lionesses an ideal start on Friday night in what was their first match of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 qualifying, heading her side in front midway through the first half.

But Sweden equalised in the second period through Fridolina Rolfö, meaning the 63,248 fans inside Wembley Stadium connected by EE had to settle for a draw.

England now head to the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday to take on the Republic of Ireland before a double-header against France in late May and early June.

Reverse fixtures with the Republic of Ireland and Sweden in July will conclude the group, with the sides hoping to secure a top-two finish to guarantee one of the 16 places at UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland, and avoid the play-offs.

Russo said: "Sweden are a top side and our group is so tough but we're a good side too. It was disappointing not to take all three points but we have come up against a really strong Sweden side. We will reflect and learn and get ready to go again on Tuesday.

"To our standards, we know there's a little bit all over the pitch that we can demand higher of each other.

“As players, we will own that and we'll look back at it. All across the board, there were just a little lower standards than we are used to.

"They pressed us really well, it's tough, it's not like it's an easy game. They're a top side and we struggled at times to figure out their problems but at the same time, we still got a draw.”

Russo was an integral part of the England team that won UEFA Women’s EURO 2022 at Wembley Stadium and has featured at the iconic ground on several occasions in recent years.

However, this was her first goal at the home of English football. Even though it was not the result she was hoping for, it was still a moment to relish for the 25-year-old.

"It is always nice to score, especially at Wembley, the home of English football,” Russo said.

“I love playing for England, I love playing here, and it was really nice to get on the scoresheet.”

England now have four days to rest, recover and prepare ahead of taking on the Republic of Ireland at another of Europe’s great stadiums.

Russo added: "It's massive. We know this group is really tough and we know that every result counts and every point counts.

“We will get rested, do lots of recovery in the next few days and then we'll be ready to go."