England open Euros with tight victory on electric atmosphere

It may sound cliché but the game of football was the real winner on a night when the Women’s Euros kicked-off with spectacular scenes at Old Trafford. 

A packed crowd at one of the most famous stadiums in the world revelled in a wonderful occasion, summed up by England manager Sarina Wiegman when asked about the atmosphere, who said: “It was incredible. No more words.” 

A flamboyant pyrotechnics display, thousands of flags waved in earnest and the host nation ready to enter the battle, the scene was set for 25 days of footballing drama. 

Quite understandably, the players were desperate to get started, as demonstrated by a false start at kick-off. Once the opening whistle to Euro 22 did sound, England, free-scoring in the build-up matches, found Austria a stubborn opponent. 

A moment of class broke the deadlock on 16 minutes, Fran Kirby clipping a delicious pass over the disciplined Austria defence for Beth Mead to take a touch and calmly lob the advancing ‘keeper for a goal that just crept over the line. 

In the traditions of tournament football, any hopes of the floodgates opening were dashed by Austrian spirit, organisation and determination. England pushed and probed for a decisive second but had to settle for a narrow win to begin the Euros. 

Focus now shifts to Southampton and the St Mary’s Stadium for tonight’s second match between Northern Ireland and Norway. Old Trafford has set the precedent for what could be the greatest tournament in women’s football.