Lionesses beat Greece 3-1 in World Cup play-off first leg

England women's national football team manager Sarina Wiegman watched her side secure a 3-1 victory against Greece at the Pankritio Stadio in Crete on Friday night, claiming a valuable first-leg advantage in the Women's World Cup qualifying play-offs. The European champions were forced into the play-off path after finishing runners-up in their qualification group behind Spain.

The win marked only the third victory for England in their past eight competitive away fixtures. While the result was positive, Wiegman admitted her frustration over failing to keep a clean sheet due to defensive lapses that allowed Greece several scoring opportunities, including Ioanna Papatheodorou hitting the crossbar before setting up Kallisti Brouksair for the hosts' goal.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

With Lucy Bronze withdrawing from the squad due to a minor injury, Manchester United captain Maya le Tissier was handed a rare start at right-back. Making her 15th appearance for the national team, Le Tissier put in a standout display and scored her first international goal in the 63rd minute, offering strong optimism for the future beyond 34-year-old Bronze.

"As soon as we were in possession, she was higher on the pitch and she already came close to a couple of moments with crosses."

Sarina Wiegman

Wiegman also handed debuts to 18-year-old Erica Meg Parkinson and Liverpool captain Grace Fisk, who waited over six years for her senior call-up. Meanwhile, Chelsea forward Lauren James operated in a free attacking role, nearly lobbing the Greek goalkeeper from 30 yards before her effort was ruled out for offside, following Georgia Stanway's opening goal in a tight first half.