Sarina Wiegman reacts to England's draw with Sweden

Sarina Wiegman praised the performance and quality of Sweden after England had to settle for a point in their opening match of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 qualifying.

Friday night’s clash under the Wembley Stadium lights was the Lionesses’ first game of UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 qualifying, as they look to retain the title they won in 2022.

Next up for England is a trip to Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on Tuesday to play the Republic of Ireland before a further four qualifying matches, with France also in the group.

The goal is to finish in the top two of their mini-qualifying pool and secure one of the 16 spots at UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland.

England made a great start against Sweden on Friday as Alessia Russo headed them in front midway through the first half but it was cancelled out by Fridolina Rolfö in the second period.

Wiegman said: "It was a tough game against a very good opponent, we knew that before the game.

“We had the ball a lot and how they pressed we struggled a little bit. We went too much inside, especially first half, we chose short options and I think we could have done better with decision-making on the ball. We found it hard to find the spaces and we wanted to go around later on. 

"They defended really well, out of possession they did well too. We were struggling at moments to get the high press but that also had to do with the qualities they showed, with rotations, inside wingers and some dynamics in midfield.

"The goal we conceded was really unnecessary. We gave away a throw-in which was unnecessary and then we didn't press enough and they had a good cross and they finished that one.

“We were able to have the press on the ball and take out the cross. The moment after we were lucky because we weren't good on a long ball. Those things we really need to do better.

"At the end of the game we were really pressing trying to score a goal and we were really close, and that's exactly how close this game was.”

England’s opening goal was a moment of real quality, as Lauren James’ expert cross, shortly after she switched to the right flank, was nodded in from close range by Russo.

Wiegman added: "There was a moment right before where we had an opportunity and we kept the ball well. We switched play and with the cross, the positioning of Alessia was really good.

“She stayed far away at the back shoulder of the right centre back, the preparation, the cross, and the finish was really good."