The biggest tournament in women’s football kicked off down under last week, with both Australia and New Zealand playing hosts to the best 32 international sides in the world.
After watching surprise results shock some of the favourite sides, England faced an unknown quantity in Haiti on Saturday, looking to state their intentions in Group D.
Sarina Weigman’s side got their first taste of silverware just two years ago, lifting the Euros at Wembley following their extra time win over Germany. Could they replicate that feat on the biggest stage of all?
Opening Game Nerves
The USA are frontrunners for a fifth WWC title, but with England close behind, they began their campaign with a 1-0 victory over their opponents.
It wasn’t all straightforward for the Lionesses, though. Haiti, making their debut in the tournament, were physical from the outset, proving the 49-place ranking between the sides to look much fewer with dangerous counter attacks.
Spearheading these breaks was arguably the player of the match in Melchie Dumornay. The 19-year-old Lyon midfielder kept England’s defence on alert – especially captain Millie Bright, who looked shy of match fitness since returning from knee surgery.
In front of the 44,000 attendance in Brisbane, the European champs dominated possession but didn’t create any clear-cut chances in a stop-start first half.
The deadlock was eventually broken by Georgia Stanway’s penalty after Haiti’s Louis blatant handball denied Lucy Bronze getting on the end of a cross.
With Haiti the more threatening side in the second half, the Lionesses will need to be back to their best when they face Denmark on Friday.
On the Ground with Shiv
It wasn’t all about the game on Saturday. Out in Brisbane, Birmingham City and Jamaica defender Shiv (@wilsoncoaching) was getting set for the matchday by visiting our JD Brisbane store!
Keeping it fresh for the cooler temperatures in Oz, our gal made sure she was on point for the Lionesses’ opening game.
Flicking through the huge range of ‘fits, Nike’s signature Tech Fleece stood out with a matching hoodie and joggers combo. Levelling up an off-duty classic, the lightweight and ultra-soft fabric delivers premium comfort from the streets to the stands.
Signing off her style, she paired up the set with the latest Air Max Pulse. Dropping in a clean white colourway, they fuse running-inspired mesh panels with crisp leather, while the iconic Max Air unit delivers legendary Swoosh cushioning.
Not forgetting to show her support for the Lionesses, Shiva layered up her look with this season’s England shirt from Nike.
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Back Your Lionesses
Ready for Friday’s game? Cheer your nation on with the latest England shirt from our range of WWC23 kits!
And for loads more behind-the-scenes access from Shiva, keep it locked to @jdfootball across our socials. 📲
