England's 2-1 victory over South Africa in a friendly match left more questions than answers, but these games often allow teams to experiment without peak performance. As long as they are prepared by 2 July, when Sarina Wiegman's team starts defending their European title at Euro 2025 in Switzerland, there should be minimal concerns. However, the Lionesses' inability to capitalize on their strong start, scoring twice in the first half-hour, and allowing Christinah Kgatlana to exploit defensive vulnerabilities that persist, is cause for reflection.
Wiegman had promised changes after the 4-3 loss to Germany at Wembley on Friday, and she delivered, making eight alterations for the South Africa match. Only Georgia Stanway, Beth Mead, and Leah Williamson retained their starting spots. Alex Greenwood partnered with Williamson at center-back, with Millie Bright on the bench, as Wiegman tested a new partnership and continued to support her captain, who had struggled against Germany and faced a challenging start with Arsenal.
Mary Earps returned to the starting lineup as the competition for the goalkeeper position intensified, and Manchester United's Maya Le Tissier started at right-back. Grace Clinton and Jess Park began in midfield, while Jess Naz earned her first cap as a forward. South Africa, coming off a 5-0 loss to Denmark, made four changes, including Hildah Magaia replacing Nthabiseng Majiya up front.
England took the lead in the 12th minute through a Beth Mead corner, which found Williamson, who scored. The captain's 50th appearance for the Lionesses was marked by a cathartic celebration. Two minutes later, England's defense faltered, allowing Kgatlana to set up Magaia, but Clinton and Earps combined to clear the danger. Clinton's forward play was exceptional, leading to her heading in a goal to extend England's lead.
South Africa made two halftime substitutions due to injuries, and continued to pressure England. Kgatlana capitalized on a misplaced pass by Williamson to score, exposing England's defensive issues. Wiegman made several changes, introducing Alessia Russo, Fran Kirby, Lucy Bronze, and Ella Toone. Despite Kgatlana's offside goal being disallowed and a late save by Earps, the match ended on a less positive note for England, who managed to secure the win but faced significant challenges from South Africa.
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