Euro 2025: England qualify despite goalless draw
ENGLAND secured direct qualification to Euro 2025 following a goalless draw with Sweden in Gothenburg.
The Lionesses dominated possession in the first half, but their only real chances came from Georgia Stanway and Lucy Bronze.
The hosts suddenly sprang into action with Johanna Rytting Kaneryd and Filippa Angeldal, having great opportunities either side of half-time before Sweden pushed for a goal in the final stages.
However, reigning champions, England, were able to hold out and book their spot at next year’s tournament in Switzerland with a second placed finish in Group A3, meaning they avoid a play-off scenario.
Sarina Wiegman made three changes with Bronze, Millie Bright and Ella Toone all returning to the starting line-up and following a cagey opening, England provided the first flashes of threat in the Swedish box with a great run from Toone and a menacing cross from Lauren Hemp.
The Lionesses began to take charge with some good spells of pressure and they had a great opportunity when Stanway fired a cross into the box for Alessia Russo, who was unable to get a clean connection on the ball which flew wide.
England continued to dominate and build up play well across the pitch with some quick passing, which left the hosts frustrated as they struggled to retain the ball.
Despite their dominance, the Lionesses were unable to break down the Swedish defence, which led to Stanway unleashing a low strike from outside the area that drifted narrowly wide of the post.
Sweden suddenly burst into life just before the break when Millie Bright cleared a cross as far as Hanna Lundkvist on the edge of the box, who blasted the ball over the bar, and they came close again when Rytting Kaneryd scrambled an effort just wide at the back post.
Sweden continued to plough forward, but the Lionesses were able to see the game out and earn the point.-Independent
