Lionesses Ready to Adapt as They Face Spain in Nations League Showdown – Bronze
Lucy Bronze says England’s ability to adapt during games will be crucial as they prepare to face world champions Spain on Tuesday (18:00 BST), with a place in the Women’s Nations League semi-finals at stake.
Victory in Barcelona would see the Lionesses leapfrog Spain to top Group A3, but the hosts, who currently sit two points clear, need only a draw at Espanyol’s RCDE Stadium to secure their place in the next round.
“We know how to beat Spain, and they know how to beat us. It’s two of the best teams in the world going head-to-head,” said right-back Bronze, reports Football Scores Today.
“I think we’re one of the most flexible teams out there. We can play possession-based football, hit on the counter, and stretch teams with pace in behind.
“We’ve got players who are both quick and technical, and that’s something we’ve been building on for years. In today’s game, you have to be ready every second because teams can hurt you in so many ways.
“This squad continues to grow, and a big part of that is our adaptability—being able to adjust our approach depending on who we’re up against.”
Strong Momentum and Competition for Places
Spain edged England 1-0 in last year’s World Cup final, but the Lionesses responded with a 1-0 win of their own when the sides last met at Wembley in February.
They arrive in Spain on a high after a commanding 6-0 victory over Portugal last Friday, where Aggie Beever-Jones made headlines with a hat-trick. But with Alessia Russo now fit again, the Arsenal striker is set to provide stiff competition for a starting spot.
Manager Sarina Wiegman has plenty of options, with key players like Ella Toone back in the fold, and Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp, and Alex Greenwood all edging closer to peak form following injury setbacks.
One absentee, however, will be Manchester United midfielder Grace Clinton, who is suspended for the match.
“There’s real depth in this squad with top players coming back and performing well,” said Bronze, looking ahead to Euro 2025, which begins on 2 July in Switzerland.
“You’ve got England, Spain, France, Germany – all strong contenders. It’s going to be tight, just like we saw in the last Euros and World Cup. We know we can beat anyone, but so can they.”
Wiegman Nearing Final Euros Squad Decision
Tuesday’s fixture will be the last opportunity for players to impress before Wiegman names her 23-player squad for the Euros on Thursday, 5 June. The manager confirmed she is close to finalising her selection.
“We’re nearly there,” said Wiegman. “There’s still this match to consider, and then we’ll make our final choices.
“It’s tough, because you’re balancing the immediate priority of winning this game with the longer-term aim of preparing for a major tournament. But that’s our job—to keep both in focus.”
