Lionesses Edge Switzerland in Tactical Battle at Bramall Lane

Grace Clinton’s early strike in the 8th minute proved decisive as England secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Switzerland in their final international friendly of the year at Bramall Lane. The Lionesses dominated much of the game but were unable to extend their lead, with Clinton’s goal standing as the difference in a tightly contested match.

Sarina Wiegman opted for a significantly rotated lineup in the Lionesses’ starting eleven, featuring players such as Laura Blindkilde Brown, Aggie Beaver-Jones, Gabby George, and Esme Morgan.

Switzerland’s lineup saw Ana-Maria Crnogorčević, Noelle Maritz and Julia Stierli starting for the side, alongside Iman Beney and Coumba Sow.

England were quick to highlight their determination to end the year on a high, as Grace Clinton put the Lionesses ahead in the 8th minute of the game. A rebounded header from Clinton's Manchester United teammate Millie Turner saw the ball fall at the feet of Clinton, who was able to tap the ball in, netting her third goal in five appearances.

Further chances for England fell shortly after, with Maya Le Tissier and Aggie Beever-Jones proving dominant within the box.

Switzerland had a poor first half, with no shots being taken. However, their 5-back defence mechanism did seem to work, keeping the Lionesses at bay.

Wiegman made one substitution during the half-time interval, with Jess Park making way for Alessia Russo.

In the early minutes of the second half, England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was forced into a save following a counter-attack from Iman Beney. England then returned to the front foot with Blindkilde Brown's strike being turned behind by Herzog.

In the 63rd minute, Wiegman made her second set of substitutions, with Ruby Mace and Gabby George exiting the field, and Beth Mead and Keira Walsh entering the action.

England managed to create some opportunities on goal in the second half, but they struggled to convert their chances into a decisive advantage. Meanwhile, Switzerland grew into the game and looked increasingly confident, controlling possession and creating moments of real threat.

The closing minutes of the match were filled with drama, beginning with a mix-up involving Lucy Bronze. Wiegman was ready to sub the 33-year-old on in the 83rd minute, before discovering she was not named on the official teamsheet. The oversight caused a brief delay and raised questions on the sidelines. Shortly after, Switzerland piled on the pressure, leading to a tense VAR review for a potential penalty. The Lionesses held their breath as the referee consulted the monitor, but ultimately no penalty was awarded, allowing England to escape with their narrow 1-0 victory intact.