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Internationals: Mead assists Russo for England

Alessia Russo celebrates with her England teammates after scoring against Ireland
Alessia Russo celebrates with her England teammates after scoring against Ireland

Alessia Russo was on target for England on Friday evening, as they battle to qualify for the UEFA Women's Euros 2025. 

The Lionesses, captained by Leah Williamson, defeated Ireland 2-1 at Carrow Road to keep the chances of defending their title alive.

After just five minutes played, Beth Mead played a one-touch pass through to Russo, who rounded the Irish keeper with ease to slot home.

Georgia Stanway extended their lead in the second half from the penalty spot but Julie Russell dampened the English party, scoring a consolation goal for Ireland in the dying moments of stoppage time. 

As long as they avoid defeat against Sweden on July 16, England will qualify for Euro 2025. If Sweden beat England, the Lionesses will be forced into the play-offs for a second chance at qualifying. 

Despite a 3-1 win over Poland, Austria will have to achieve qualification via the play-offs. Manuela Zinsberger and Laura Wienroither both played 90 minutes for their country in the victory, but Iceland's upset against Germany secured their place at next year's tournament.  

Frida Maanum played for over an hour during Norway's 1-1 draw with Finland, meaning that Group A1 is still wide open. All four teams (Norway, the Netherlands, Finland and Italy) have the chance of qualifying going into the final game.

Maanum's Norway will qualify if they defeat the Netherlands or if both fixtures end in a draw. A loss on Tuesday could mean relegation to League B if Italy also lose to Finland. 

Spain have already qualified for Euro 2025 but suffered a surprise 2-1 loss against Czechia on Friday. Laia Codina made a late appearance off the bench and Mariona Caldentey was not in the matchday squad.

Elsewhere in the group, Denmark booked their place at the tournament with a 3-0 win over Belgium. Kathrine Kuhl was an unused substitute.

Away from the European qualifiers, Canada beat Australia 2-1 in a pre-Olympics friendly. Kyra Cooney-Cross played the full game for the Matildas, whilst Canada's Cloe Lacasse featured for over an hour. Steph Catley and Caitlin Foord were withdrawn from the squad ahead of the tie. 

Emily Fox, meanwhile, started for the US Women's National Team as they beat Mexico 1-0 in a friendly. Our right-back was subbed off for Emily Sonnett right after Sophie Smith scored for the US in the 64th minute.