England qualify for Euro 2025 but they must improve to defend title

England qualified as League A3 runners-up, a point behind France, and while they need to improve there are reasons to be positive.

It was considered the ‘group of death’ containing three of the world’s top six, and England picked up two away victories in Ireland and France.

“It feels amazing. That’s what we set out to do. This group was really difficult, really tough and they were good opposition,” said Manchester United’s Ella Toone.

“We wanted to top the group of course. We’re England, we want to win every game we’re in, but we knew it would be difficult. To get out of a group like that, we’re really proud.”

Toone said “everyone expects so much” from England and it is clear there is more to come from them.

However, having faced tough opposition in qualifying, Toone hopes the Lionesses will be better prepared for Euro 2025 having had their weaknesses exposed.

“We know where we’re at now competing against top teams,” added Toone.

“It’s all well and good playing teams and winning 10-0, but these are the games you learn from – the tough games.”

Wiegman added: “These top-level games showed us what we need to work on. When you play other teams from lower levels, those things will not be highlighted as much as they are now.

“We know exactly where we stand and what we need to improve on as a team and as individuals. We’ll start working on that pretty soon.”