England’s Women’s Under-23s kicked off 2026 in style, claiming a hard-fought 1-0 victory over France to book their place in the semi-finals of the WU23 European Competition.
Under the guidance of newly-appointed interim head coach Lauren Smith, the Young Lionesses produced a composed and disciplined performance in what proved to be a competitive and testing encounter at the French national football centre.
First-Half Breakthrough
From the opening whistle, the match was finely balanced. France, buoyed by home advantage, sought to dominate possession and press high, while England remained patient, focusing on defensive organisation and quick transitions.
Gradually, the visitors’ discipline began to pay off as they absorbed pressure and found openings.
A decisive moment arrived late in the first half. Erica Meg Parkinson made a dynamic run into the French penalty area, cut inside, and unleashed a low shot that hit the post.
The rebound fell to Lexi Lloyd-Smith, who kept her composure to fire an unstoppable strike past goalkeeper Ines Marques into the top corner.
This gave England a deserved lead and momentum heading into the break.
Resilient Second Half
France came out with renewed intensity in the second half, determined to find an equaliser. They pressed higher and tested England’s backline, but the Young Lionesses held firm.
Khiara Keating in goal remained alert, while captain Ruby Mace marshalled the defence, ensuring the team stayed compact and difficult to break down.
England also continued to look dangerous on the break, proving they were capable of threatening the French goal at any moment.
Midway through the second half, England almost doubled their lead. Meg Collett, making her first start for the WU23s, connected with a corner and forced a scramble in the French area.
Her shot hit the outside of the post, narrowly missing what would have been a spectacular addition to the scoreline.
Despite this close call, England’s defensive resilience and tactical awareness kept France at bay, preserving the 1-0 advantage until the final whistle.
Path to the Semi-Finals
The win not only demonstrates England’s ability to perform under pressure but also highlights the strength of the squad under Lauren Smith.
The blend of experienced campaigners and promising newcomers, such as Collett and Eleanor Klinger, has created a balanced team capable of competing at the highest level.
This result secures England’s place in the semi-finals of the WU23 European Competition, with the details of their next opponents to be confirmed.
The young Lionesses will return to action later this week, hosting the Netherlands at Shrewsbury Town on Friday, providing an opportunity to build on their strong start to the year.
Standout Performances
Several players shone in this crucial fixture. Lexi Lloyd-Smith was the hero of the match, delivering a composed and clinical finish for the only goal.
Erica Meg Parkinson was influential throughout, her pace and direct runs consistently troubling the French defence and creating chances.
On her first start, Meg Collett impressed with her work rate and attacking intent, nearly doubling the lead with a well-taken effort from a scramble in the box.
Defensively, captain Ruby Mace and goalkeeper Khiara Keating provided leadership and composure under pressure, ensuring England maintained their clean sheet.
Emerging players such as Eleanor Klinger also showed maturity beyond their years, blending well into the midfield and contributing to England’s balance across the pitch.
Line-Ups
Starting XI: Khiara Keating (Manchester City), Meg Collett (Southampton), Chloe Sarwie (Chelsea), Ruby Mace (Everton, captain), Gracie Prior (Manchester City), Teyah Goldie (London City Lionesses), Lexi Lloyd-Smith (Bristol City), Maisie Symonds (Brighton & Hove Albion), Isobel Goodwin (London City Lionesses), Erica Meg Parkinson (Valadares Gaia), Eleanor Klinger (Stanford University)
Substitutes Used: Jess Simpson (Southampton, on loan from Manchester United) 62’, Lenna Gunning-Williams (Tottenham Hotspur) 62’, Jessie Gale (Arsenal, on loan to Bristol City) 73’, Sarah Brasero (West Ham) 90’
Unused Substitutes: Olivia McLoughlin, Katie Cox, Hannah Silcock, Mari Ward, Cerys Brown, Lexi Potter, Natalia Negri
Goal: Lexi Lloyd-Smith 43’
England’s victory in France is a statement of intent.
With a semi-final spot secured and confidence high, the Young Lionesses are well placed to continue their pursuit of European success while giving emerging players the chance to stake their claim for future involvement in the senior squad.
