**Evaluating Euro 2025 Prospects for the Lionesses: Players Who Shined and Those Who Fell Short**
England’s women’s national football team, fondly referred to as the Lionesses, recently faced Belgium in a pair of matches during the Women’s Nations League. This scrutiny is particularly significant as head coach Sarina Wiegman prepares to finalize the squad for Euro 2025. The Lionesses had contrasting results; they registered an impressive 5-0 victory against Belgium in their first encounter but suffered a disappointing 3-2 defeat shortly afterwards in Leuven. With several star players sidelined due to injuries, this international break offered other players a platform to demonstrate their capabilities.
Emerging from these matches, several players bolstered their chances for selection while some significant talents faced potential declines in their standings. Among the standout players, 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang made an unforgettable impression by fermenting her status as an emerging talent. On loan at Brighton from Arsenal, Agyemang contributed outstandingly, notably scoring shortly after coming off the bench to make her senior team debut.
In the prior game against Austria, Agyemang showcased her flair by netting a goal for the Under-19s, which earned her a prompt call-up to the senior squad. In her debut against Belgium, she scored just a minute into her appearance, expertly volleying a long-ball delivery into the top corner of the net. Former England striker Ian Wright lauded her for making an immediate impact, emphasizing Agyemang’s potential as a strong contender for future matches.
Similarly, Chelsea’s Aggie Beever-Jones has also been climbing the ranks among forwards. With eight goals to her name in the Women’s Super League this season, she capitalized on her opportunity by scoring her first international goal as a substitute during the victory against Belgium. Beever-Jones earned her inaugural start in the following match, highlighting her adaptability as she switched positions mid-game and displayed versatility across the pitch, suggesting she may have eclipsed competitors like Tottenham’s Jess Naz.
In addition to Agyemang and Beever-Jones, Manchester City’s Jess Park has also been a consistent presence in Wiegman’s selections. After scoring in the first match, she received a start in Leuven, showcasing her capability while experienced midfielders like Fran Kirby and Ella Toone were sidelined. Wiegman’s trust in Park has reinforced her position within the team.
Conversely, some players failed to seize their advancement opportunities, presenting a shortcoming in their quest for a Euro 2025 spot. Notably, Jess Naz was struggling this season for form with Tottenham, amplifying her pressure to demonstrate her worth at the international level. Further complicating her situation is the return of key figures such as Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly, making it an uphill battle for Naz.
Nikita Parris, who returned to the England setup after a two-year absence, experienced challenges as well. Originally praised for her hold-up play in a previous match against Spain, Parris’s performance against Belgium was subpar, leaving her without a noteworthy contribution and ultimately leading to her substitution. This missed opportunity might result in her falling back in the competition for a squad selection for Euro 2025.
Not to be overlooked, Manchester United captain Maya Le Tissier was notably absent from the squad despite a strong performance in the Women’s Super League. Despite her effectiveness in defense for United, she was not chosen to fortify the backline during the Belgium matches. Instead, Wiegman opted for Esme Morgan and Jess Carter to substitute during a crucial game, indicating the intense competition among players for limited spots.
As the pathway to Euro 2025 unfolds, the recent match results mean that Wiegman now faces crucial decisions regarding squad selection. With emerging talents like Agyemang and Beever-Jones making their cases stronger, while seasoned players like Parris and Naz struggle, time is decidedly of the essence for these athletes. The upcoming months will be critical as the countdown to the tournament intensifies, and every display could prove pivotal in shaping the future of the Lionesses.