Belgium Stuns England in Women's Nations League Thriller
In a stunning upset, Belgium defeated the reigning European champions, England, 3-2 in their Women's Nations League clash on April 8th, 2025. This dramatic result followed England's 5-0 victory over the same opponent just four days prior, highlighting the unpredictable nature of international football. Meanwhile, Spain dominated Portugal with a resounding 7-1 win, securing the top spot in their group.
Belgium's Commanding First Half
Belgium's victory was built on a dominant first half performance. Tessa Wullaert bagged a brace, showcasing her prowess with two well-taken goals, while Justine Vanhaevermaet added a header to make it 3-0 before England could respond. Beth Mead pulled one back from the penalty spot, offering a glimmer of hope for the Lionesses.
England's Late Fightback Falls Short
Despite a late surge, with a stunning goal from debutant Michelle Agyemang just 41 seconds after entering the game, England's comeback fell short. While Agyemang's goal injected much-needed energy and excitement, the Lionesses couldn't fully capitalize on their momentum, leaving them with a frustrating defeat and their first loss of the campaign. England's captain, Leah Williamson, acknowledged the team's slow start and inability to adapt as key factors in the loss.
Spain's Dominant Display
In contrast to England's struggles, Spain showcased their attacking prowess with a dominant 7-1 victory over Portugal. Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas, two Ballon d'Or winners, led the charge with exceptional performances. Spain's clinical finishing and cohesive team play left Portugal overwhelmed. This win puts Spain firmly at the top of their group, two points ahead of England.
Looking Ahead
England's loss serves as a crucial lesson, highlighting the need for consistent focus and adaptability. With two matches remaining in the group stage, the Lionesses will need to regroup and refocus to secure their desired results against Portugal and Spain. The future of the Nations League, and ultimately the upcoming European Championship, now hangs in the balance for Sarina Wiegman's team. The question remains: can England recover and reclaim their winning form?