England’s performance in the 2023 Women’s World Cup has highlighted a significant shift in their playing style compared to their success in Euro 2022. While the previous tournament focused on impressive goal scorers, this World Cup has showcased the team’s defensive superiority. Key players such as Beth Mead, Leah Williamson, and Fran Kirby, who played an integral role in England’s Euro victory, have been sidelined due to injuries. Additionally, retirements of Ellen White and Jill Scott have further changed the composition of the team. This new lineup has resulted in a stronger defensive approach, solidified by the introduction of a back three.
The back three, consisting of Jess Carter, Millie Bright, and Alex Greenwood, has become the backbone of England’s defensive prowess in this tournament. Despite limited experience playing together under coach Sarina Wiegman, they have quickly found their rhythm and formed a formidable defensive unit. Their collective efforts have resulted in England conceding only two goals thus far, showcasing their ability to limit shots on target (2.4 per game) and expected goals against (0.8).
Alex Greenwood has been a standout player for England in the tournament. Her versatility has been particularly impressive, as she has seamlessly transitioned from left-back to centre-back to the left side of the back three, depending on the team’s needs. Greenwood’s impact is evident in her tournament-leading statistics, such as most touches (596), interceptions (13), completed passes (436), and progressive passes within the England team (40). Her technical skills, game reading abilities, and ability to make precise passes in tight spaces have been crucial in England’s defensive success.
A Resilient Millie Bright
Millie Bright’s involvement in the tournament was initially uncertain due to a knee injury sustained while playing for Chelsea. However, Bright proved her resilience by making an impactful return to the field. Her performance has been characterized by her dominance in the air, effectively neutralizing opponents’ aerial threats. Bright’s statistics speak for themselves, as she leads the tournament in ball carries (118) and carries the ball further (1190.34 meters) than any other player. Her presence and ability to clear crosses and set plays have been pivotal in England’s defensive solidity.
Jess Carter: The Adaptable Defender
Jess Carter, Bright’s Chelsea teammate, has earned her place in the starting lineup and has formed a formidable partnership with Lucy Bronze on the right side of the field. Carter’s versatility and adaptability, honed through playing multiple positions at Chelsea, have been key in maintaining defensive stability. Her pace, defensive skills, and ability to win duels have added an extra layer of security to England’s backline.
The Challenge Ahead
England’s defense will face their toughest test yet in the upcoming match against Australia, who boast a formidable attacking lineup including Caitlin Foord, Hayley Raso, Mary Fowler, and Sam Kerr. The wing-backs, Rachel Daly and Lucy Bronze, will play a crucial role in containing the wide threats, while Carter, Bright, and Greenwood will need to marshal the remaining threats, with Kerr being the primary concern. The flexibility of the defensive formation, as mentioned by Wiegman, will be crucial in adapting to different game situations.
A Cohesive Defensive Unit
What sets England’s defense apart is the seamless cohesion between the players, each contributing their unique strengths to create a strong defensive structure. Regardless of their individual experiences at previous tournaments, the back three understands the game well and exhibit excellent passing and defensive abilities. This strong foundation allows the team to build attacks from the back and exploit spaces effectively.
The introduction of the back three formation was unexpected at the beginning of the tournament. However, its success has been instrumental in England’s journey so far. From winning Euro 2022 on the strength of their attack to the current defensive focus, England’s ability to adapt and evolve their playing style reflects their determination to succeed in the Women’s World Cup.
England’s defensive transformation in the 2023 Women’s World Cup has been a key factor in their success. The introduction of the back three, consisting of Jess Carter, Millie Bright, and Alex Greenwood, has provided a solid foundation for the team. Their ability to limit opponents’ goal-scoring opportunities and contribute to building attacks from the back has been instrumental in England’s impressive run in the tournament. As they face their toughest challenge against Australia in the semifinals, England’s defense will be critical in determining their path to victory.
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