Grace Clinton lifts mood as Lionesses stumble past vibrant South Africa
England 2-1 South AfricaLionesses score two early goals but fail to impress
There were more questions to be asked than answers provided in England’s 2-1 win over South Africa but, to a certain extent, friendlies are when they can afford to be far from their best.
As long as they are ready by 2 July, when Sarina Wiegman’s charges begin their defence of their European title at Euro 2025 in Switzerland, there will be few complaints. However, there is plenty to think about after the Lionesses failed to capitalise after scoring twice in a strong opening half-hour, eventually allowing Christinah Kgatlana to expose a defensive fragility that just will not go away and pull one back for the visiting team.
