England will take on Nigeria in the last 16 of the 2023 Women’s World Cup as they look to reach the quarter-finals for a fifth time.
Sarina Wiegman’s side won all three of their group stage matches, recording 1-0 victories over Haiti and Denmark and an emphatic 6-1 win against China.
Lauren James starred in the Lionesses’ win over the Asian side, scoring a brace and assisting three more, before coming off to a standing ovation in the 77th minute.
Nigeria came second in Group B after holding Olympic champions Canada to a 0-0 draw in their opener before coming from behind to beat co-hosts Australia 3-2.
Here is everything you need to know ahead of England’s clash with the Super Falcons.
When is England v Nigeria?
The 2023 Women’s World Cup last 16 match between England and Nigeria kicks off at 08:30 UK time on Monday, August 7.
Which TV channel is England v Nigeria on?
Coverage of England v Nigeria will be shown on BBC One, with commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live.
How to watch a live stream of England v Nigeria
You can watch a live stream of the match in the UK via BBC iPlayer.
How to follow England v Nigeria via live updates
We will be hosting live text coverage of the match on TNT Sports.
Will Keira Walsh be fit?
Keira Walsh suffered a knee injury in England’s match against Denmark. While it has been confirmed that she did not suffer an ACL injury, the timeline on her return is unclear, and it is unknown whether she will be able to play in the knockout rounds.
However against China, England showed that they can adapt despite missing one of their best players. Wiegman made a significant tactical change to a 3-5-2 formation, a departure from their usual setup to in response to the loss of a key midfielder, and it resulted in England delivering their best performance in months.
During the successful Euro 2022 campaign, Wiegman had stuck with the same starting line-up throughout all six matches.
However, the World Cup presented a different challenge, and she responded with decisive action. Rather than opting for a simple replacement and maintaining England’s 4-3-3 formation, Wiegman’s tactical tweak ignited a new spark in the team.
In the game against China, England displayed threats from various areas, with wing-backs Lucy Bronze and Rachel Daly doubling up as wingers and causing disruption to China’s defensive shape. This created space for Alessia Russo and Lauren Hemp to wreak havoc on the flanks.
The back three of Jess Carter, Millie Bright and Alex Greenwood compensated for the absence of Walsh in England’s build-up play. Midfielders Stanway and Katie Zelem provided a solid foundation in front.
Within this new setup, James thrived, positioned as a central figure in the team’s gameplay. James was given the freedom to drift and pick up the ball where she could be most dangerous, showcasing her talent and growing importance for England.
Wiegman’s decision to change the formation not only suited James but also benefited every other player on the team. The new structure provided better cover for the defence and allowed for more attacking options and pace during transitions. Even without Walsh, England maintained control of possession, especially in the first half, where they played with utmost intensity.
This 3-5-2 system may not be England’s plan for the entire tournament. The Lionesses have proven their willingness to adapt their approach based on the opposition. The next match against Nigeria in the last 16 will present a different challenge, and Wiegman will likely adjust her tactics accordingly, taking into account the strengths and threats posed by the African side.
Nigeria not scared of European champions
Before knowing which team they were set to face, Nigeria manager Randy Waldrum said: “They are going to be another great team, if it’s England, the European champions, we have already played Canada, the Olympic gold medallists, we have already played the host nation, it’s just going to be one of those matches that we’ve already been playing.”
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