England’s Nations League campaign got off to a frustrating start with a 1-1 draw against Portugal in Portimão. Despite an early goal from Alessia Russo, the Lionesses were unable to maintain their lead, with Kika Nazareth’s second-half strike earning the hosts a share of the points.
The result leaves England with plenty to think about in a challenging group that includes reigning world champions Spain, as well as Belgium and Portugal. A strong start was crucial, but a lack of clinical finishing proved costly. Meanwhile, Spain mounted a dramatic comeback against Belgium, scoring twice in injury time to secure a 3-2 victory.
England were without key players, including Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp, Alex Greenwood, and Beth Mead, forcing manager Sarina Wiegman to turn to some of the team’s young talents. Manchester United’s Grace Clinton and Manchester City’s Jess Park were given starting roles, with Clinton in particular impressing in midfield alongside Keira Walsh and Ella Toone. She played with confidence and defensive discipline, making an early shot-blocking tackle when England struggled to clear a Portugal free-kick.
Portugal have long been a tricky opponent for England, and this match was no different. The last two meetings between the sides ended in a draw and a narrow England win. On this occasion, it took England time to settle, but once they did, they struck in style. Lauren James delivered a superb crossfield ball to Lucy Bronze, who, with both Portuguese and English heritage, had both flags printed on her boots. Her delivery into the box found Russo unmarked, and the striker calmly side-footed the ball home in the 15th minute.
Despite taking control, England struggled to create clear-cut chances. Clinton appeared to be pulled back in the box just before halftime, but the referee waved away the penalty appeals. Wiegman later admitted she felt it should have been awarded but insisted her side had enough opportunities to put the game to bed.
Bronze did not return after halftime as a precautionary measure, and England lost some of their attacking rhythm. Portugal’s manager, Francisco Neto, credited his side’s second-half resurgence to a tactical shift to a 4-4-2 formation, which allowed them to disrupt England’s play. As the visitors failed to capitalize on their lead, Portugal grew in confidence.
Nazareth’s introduction proved pivotal. The talented forward, who made her Benfica debut at 16, was surprisingly left out of the starting lineup but made an instant impact. She shrugged off a challenge from Clinton before curling a stunning effort into the top corner, leaving England goalkeeper Mary Earps with no chance.
Late substitutes Chloe Kelly and Aggie Beever-Jones were brought on to inject fresh energy, but it was Portugal who came closest to snatching a winner. England’s center-back duo of Millie Bright and Leah Williamson were forced into crucial blocks in the closing minutes as the hosts pushed forward.
Next, England face Spain at Wembley in a rematch of the World Cup final. A defeat would put them under immense pressure heading into April’s fixtures, especially after failing to progress from the group stage last season, which cost them a place at the Olympics. Meanwhile, Portugal will travel to Belgium, looking to build on this promising result.
