England 1-2 Brazil: European champions suffer defeat on homecoming

England were beaten 2-1 by 10-player Brazil in what was their first match since successfully retaining their European crown.

Georgia Stanway's second-half penalty proved academic at the Etihad Stadium, where the Lionesses played well over an hour with a numerical advantage.

In the absence of Euro 2025 hero Hannah Hampton, Sarina Wiegman handed a debut to Khiara Keating, but the Manchester City goalkeeper was beaten after only nine minutes, with Bia Zanaretto sweeping home from just inside the box.

Brazil doubled their lead in the 18th minute following a swift counter that culminated in Zanaretto setting up Dudinha, who beat Keating at her near post.

However, the visitors were reduced to 10 players just three minutes later, with skipper Angelina shown a straight red card for dragging down Ella Toone.

Alex Greenwood struck the crossbar from a free-kick as the hosts looked to capitalise on having an extra player, but it was not until the 52nd minute that they reduced their arrears, with Stanway converting from the spot after Beth Mead was fouled in the box.

The woodwork denied England again later on, as Stanway hit the bar with goalkeeper Lorena beaten, but Brazil held out for victory.

Data Debrief: Dominant Lionesses fall short

England's homecoming was an unsuccessful one, as they were unable to make the most of their numerical advantage.

That was despite the Lionesses enjoying 69.8% of possession, and registering 45 touches in the opposing box to Brazil's 18.

The hosts recorded 18 shots on goal for 2.07 expected goals, but just three of those attempts were on target.