England 2-1 Republic of Ireland: Lionesses close in on Euro 2025 spot

England knew two victories of their final two qualifying matches would safe a spot in Switzerland subsequent 12 months and this was one step in the direction of attaining that.

After a rocky 12 months, the place performances have dipped and outcomes have been up and down, this felt like a extra routine win for England, even when there was finally just one purpose in it.

They dominated massive intervals and obtained the early purpose they wanted – very similar to they did in Dublin once they wrapped up a 2-0 victory.

However there have been nonetheless moments of sloppiness and it was under no circumstances an ideal efficiency.

A number of lapses of focus led to them shedding possession in harmful areas within the first half, with goalkeeper Hampton needing to be on her toes to clear, whereas England’s midfield have been too passive on events.

They have been made to pay for a defensive error deep in stoppage time as Megan Campbell’s trademark lengthy throw triggered issues, and Tyler Toland’s flick-on was pounced on by Russell, who swivelled and stabbed it previous Hampton.

Going ahead, England remained a menace – Manchester Metropolis midfielder Jess Park was given a possibility to impress and she or he performed effectively, although lacked a medical edge within the penalty space.

Mead was busy within the first half and Hemp was wanting to have an effect on her return to her house metropolis of Norwich – the place she spent the vast majority of her youth profession – and she or he did by successful the penalty.

General, it was a efficiency that did the job for England, quite than one to entertain.

For the Republic of Eire, it was all the time going to be a troublesome ask in a bunch containing three of the world’s prime six ranked nations and they’re already consigned to a spot within the play-offs.

They confirmed resistance once more in defence for big spells and had one thing to have a good time when their efforts paid off late on with a deserved purpose.

Will probably be one other powerful take a look at for them on Tuesday once they host France they usually might finish the qualifying marketing campaign having not picked up a single level.