MY ACCOUNT
England were held to a 0-0 draw by a stubborn Czech Republic side in front of a packed Amex Stadium.
Fresh from their victory over the United States the Lionesses faced a tough Czech Republic side.
The opening half was an uncharacteristically slow display from England who lacked their usual attacking prowess.
In the second half, Sarina Wiegman made a number of substitutions in an effort to continue her scoring streak but the Czech defence held strong to manage a draw.
Read on as we take a look at the five key talking points from the goalless draw.
Bronze becomes a centurion
After making her debut over nine years ago, Lucy Bronze made her 100th appearance for the Lionesses.
The 30-year-old was a crucial figure in England’s European Championship triumph.
Bronze was involved in a number of attacking chances as she aimed to celebrate her 100th appearance in style but was unable to help her side break down the Czech Republic’s defence.
James makes her full debut
Lauren James, 21, made her full England debut on the left wing and put on a bright display.
The Chelsea forward almost made an immediate impact when she skipped past her marker but she cannoned her shot onto the post.
With Lauren Hemp currently ahead of James in the pecking order, the youngster made a positive impression.
Options for England
Following the 2-1 victory over the United States in the last friendly, manager Wiegman made a trio of changes to the team, showcasing the depth of the England side.
Ella Toone, Demi Stokes and Lauren James were all introduced, replacing Daly, Stanway and Mead.
The changes show that the Lionesses have a lot of options to choose from as they continue to prepare for the World Cup next year.
Wiegman held at home
In her 24th match in charge, this was only the second match in which Sarina Wiegman’s England side have failed to score.
England demonstrated quick attacking play at the European Championships but the visitors showed their mettle with a commanding defensive display.
Wiegman has kept her unbeaten streak but the lack of goals was an unfamiliar look for the Lionesses.
Mead sparks England to life
After a slow first half, Wiegman looked to Arsenal forward Beth Mead to spark life into the Lionesses’ attack.
Mead was a breath of fresh air as she turned up the tempo in an effort to break down the Czech defence.
She looked to orchestrate the attack with astute passes and came close when she attempted to round the keeper.
Her first-half absence was noticeable and going forward shows how crucial she is to this Lionesses attack.
