Women's england football squad 2019

The lionesses roar: overview of the 2019 squad

The 2019 Women's World Cup saw England's Lionesses make a significant impact on the global stage. Led by manager Phil Neville, the squad showcased talent, determination, and a growing popularity for women's football in England. The team aimed high, hoping to secure their first World Cup title, and their journey captivated the nation.

Key players and their contributions

The 2019 squad was packed with exceptional talent. Here are some of the standout players:

• Steph Houghton: The captain, a rock in defence and a leader both on and off the pitch. Her experience and composure were crucial for the team.
• Lucy Bronze: Arguably the best right-back in the world at the time, Bronze's powerful runs, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute in attack made her a vital asset. She even won the Silver Ball as the second best player in the tournament.
• Fran Kirby: An attacking midfielder with exceptional vision and skill. Kirby's creativity and goal-scoring ability were key to unlocking opposition defenses.
• Ellen White: A prolific striker known for her clinical finishing and intelligent movement. White finished as joint top scorer at the World Cup, showcasing her world-class talent.
• Jill Scott: The veteran midfielder, a tireless workhorse who provided energy and experience to the team. Scott's longevity and commitment to the squad were invaluable.

These players, along with the rest of the squad, formed a cohesive and talented unit that represented England with pride.

The world cup journey: highs and lows

England's World Cup campaign in 2019 was a rollercoaster of emotions. They started strongly, winning their group with relative ease. Their knockout stage journey saw them overcome Cameroon and Norway, displaying resilience and tactical flexibility. The quarter-final win against Norway was particularly impressive, showcasing their attacking prowess.

However, their semi-final clash against the United States proved to be a heart-wrenching defeat. Despite a valiant effort, England lost 2-1 in a tightly contested match. A missed penalty by Steph Houghton and a disallowed goal added to the heartbreak.

In the third-place play-off, England lost to Sweden, ending their tournament on a disappointing note. While they didn't achieve their ultimate goal, their performance throughout the tournament highlighted the progress of women's football in England.

Tactical analysis and team style

Under Phil Neville, England adopted a possession-based style of play, aiming to control matches and dictate the tempo. They focused on building from the back, utilizing their technically gifted midfielders and attacking players. Their full-backs, particularly Lucy Bronze, were given license to bomb forward and contribute to the attack.

Defensively, England aimed to be organized and disciplined, with Steph Houghton leading the backline. They often deployed a 4-3-3 formation, providing a solid foundation and allowing their attacking players to flourish. However, at times, they struggled to break down stubborn defenses and lacked a cutting edge in the final third.

Neville's tactics were generally well-received, but his team selections were occasionally questioned. the team's style of play was attractive and progressive, reflecting the growing professionalism and quality of women's football.

Legacy and impact on women's football

Despite not winning the World Cup, the 2019 Women's England squad left a lasting legacy. Their performances inspired a new generation of young girls to take up the sport, and the tournament helped to further raise the profile of women's football in England. The Lionesses became household names, and their matches attracted record-breaking television audiences.

The squad's success also led to increased investment in women's football at all levels, from grassroots to the professional game. More clubs began to prioritize their women's teams, and the Women's Super League continued to grow in popularity and competitiveness.

The 2019 World Cup served as a catalyst for change, demonstrating the potential of women's football and paving the way for future success. The Lionesses' journey inspired a nation and helped to create a more inclusive and equitable sporting landscape.