England thrash Scotland but cannot avoid Team GB Olympic heartbreak

A nerve-wracking wait followed by heartbreaking disappointment encapsulated the experience for Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses in this crucial game. Despite a valiant effort, the task of scoring six goals against Scotland fell short in closing the goal difference gap with the Netherlands. The Dutch secured top spot and progressed from their Nations League group ahead of England by scoring a fourth against Belgium deep into added time.

Lauren James delivered a masterclass, and Lucy Bronze displayed a gut-busting performance, but it wasn’t enough to claim the summit. Regrets lingered from preceding games – two poorly conceded goals against the Dutch, a 3-2 defeat in Belgium, and a 2-1 loss to the Netherlands. The first goal in Utrecht appeared offside in the buildup, adding to the what-ifs of the campaign.

In the final round of fixtures, England needed a back-and-forth of goals against Scotland and the Netherlands, creating a showdown for progression. Questions arose about Scotland’s efforts, but the gulf in class was evident, and the manager, Pedro Martínez Losa, faced criticism.

Despite changes to the England side, including Beth Mead’s return and Esme Morgan replacing Jess Carter, the summit remained elusive. Wiegman’s encouragement to “go wild from the first minute” couldn’t overcome the damage from previous matches.

England took the lead early against Scotland, applying pressure on the Dutch. Mead’s corner, sent in by an unmarked Greenwood, set the tone. Appeals for a penalty against Bronze were waved away, and despite occasional forays forward by Scotland, England dominated. Lauren Hemp’s near miss and James doubling the lead reflected England’s determination. James added a third before half-time, and Mead’s goal provided a cushion after the restart.

However, the Netherlands scored again, and England’s breathing room vanished. A save by Mary Earps and a late goal by Lucy Bronze briefly rekindled hope, only to be extinguished as the Dutch scored in the 95th minute. The Lionesses, standing in a huddle, faced the painful realization of their missed opportunity.