England vs South Africa LIVE: Result and reaction as Lionesses clinch narrow win
England 2-1 South Africa: Sarina Wiegman’s side bounced back after a shock defeat to Germany but there are still areas for improvement
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.England responded to their humbling defeat against Germany with a 2-1 victory over South Africa in their second outing of the international break.
Sarina Wiegman made eight changes to the starting line-up and saw a total change in style and composure over the first 45 minutes. In midfield Grace Clinton was a breath of fresh air, tracking back, making runs and taking shots in a blistering performance that proves she is ready for a permanent run in the team.
Leah Williamson, making her 50th appearance for England, banished the demons from Friday night by slotting home the opening goal and send the Lionesses into the lead. It was a cathartic moment for the captain but one that didn’t last.
Clinton’s headed finish sent England into the break with a two-goal cushion but their advantage was halved as mistakes crept into the team. Williamson’s poor pass to Georgia Stanway gave the ball away to Thembi Kgatlana who swept into the box and scored South Africa’s first ever goal against England.
It wasn’t enough though as Wiegman brought on her experienced substitutes to see out the win.
Relive the action with our live blog below:
What is the team news?
Sarina Wiegman has confirmed that she will see “different faces” in her England team. Mary Earps could return in goal and Maya Le Tissier, Lotte Wubben-Moy and Alex Greenwood are candidates to come into the defence in place of captain Leah Williamson, who had a difficult night against Germany.
Georgia Stanway appeared alongside Sarina Wiegman in her pre-match press conference so could start in midfield but either Grace Clinton and Jess Park could start alongside her, while Fran Kirby is available after missing the Germany match with an injury.
Aggie Beever-Jones and Jess Naz could feature in attack should Wiegman make changes to her forwards, but Lauren James is not available after missing out on the squad due to injury.
How can I watch it?
The matchc will be shown on ITV 4, with coverage underway from 7pm.
If you want to stream major sporting events while you are travelling or watching from abroad you’ll need a VPN. Get the best VPN deals in the UK. Viewers using a VPN need to make sure that they comply with any local regulations where they are, and also with the terms of their service provider.
When is England vs South Africa?
The match will kick off at 7:45pm BST on Tuesday 29 October at the CBS Arena in Coventry.
England vs South Africa
England host South Africa in an international friendly as the Lionesses look to bounce back from a humbling defeat to Germany.
Sarina Wiegman’s side were beaten 4-3 at Wembley in a shock result, but it could have been worse after Germany scored three times inside the half hour.
It was a wake-up call for England ahead of their European Championship defence next summer, and Wiegman has confirmed she will make changes to her team tonight.
South Africa will be a different test and this is the first time the teams have met since 2010. The Banyana-Banyana reached the last-16 of the World Cup last year.
Good evening!
Welcome to The Independent’s coverage of tonight’s clash between England and South Africa.
Though this game is only an international friendly the Lionesses will want to impress and get back to winning ways after slipping to a 4-3 defeat against Germany last Friday.
Sarina Wiegman’s side are preparing for their European Championship defence and the manager has primised changes in personnel for tonight’s outing.
The match is being played at the CBS Arena in Coventry and we’ll bring you all the team news, line-ups and updates throughout the night. Stick with us as we build up to kick off at 7.45pm.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments