Voice of London

England’s women lost 1-2 to Germany at a record-breaking friendly at Wembley Stadium.

A historic 77,768 fans were in attendance, signifying a breakthrough in women’s football. Tickets did sell out for the game, but the British weather prevented some supporters from attending.

The teams stood in silence before kick-off to commemorate Armistice Day, with “Lest we forget” projected in the stadium in remembrance of the soldiers who lost their lives during the first and second World War.

The match was also significant for taking place 30 years to the day of the collapse of the Berlin Wall, which ended the divide within Germany.

German captain, Alexandra Popp, scored less than 10 minutes into the game, with England failing to get going in the first half and allowing Germany to maintain possession.

A yellow card was given to Sara Doorsoun after a poor tackle on England’s Beth Mead, that many believe would have been a red card in the men’s game.

Mead was also fouled in the penalty box by goalkeeper Merle Frohms, but Nikita Parris was unable to make the most of the opportunity, whose penalty was saved by Frohms.

England fans continued chanting throughout Wembley, and erupted when Ellen White scored just before half time to equalise.

The second half started with goal attempts from England and Germany, who received a third yellow card after Sophia Kleinherne stepped on the back of Nikita Parris’ heel.

A scrappy performance from England in the second half allowed Klara Bühl to score at 89 minutes, and seal the victory for Germany.

The match was England’s sixth loss in seven, leading to many questioning Phill Neville’s managerial position, whose contract ends in 2021.

“I have to improve as manager, and the team has to improve too,” Neville told BBC Sport after the match.

England’s next match is on Tuesday, when they play the Czech Republic.

Words: Alysia Georgiades | Featured image: Nathan Rogers on Unsplash