LIONESSES MAKE IT 25 GAMES UNBEATEN

England 4 Japan 0 ENGLAND’S fairytale 2022 continued as Chloe Kelly’s superb goal helped the Lionesses beat former world champions Japan.

Rachel Daly (above), Ella Toone and debutant Jess Park also got on the scoresheet in

Murcia as the

European champions made it 25 games unbeaten under manager Sarina

Wiegman.

With Lauren Hemp missing from the England gaffer’s teamsheet for the first time, Kelly made the most of her opportunity with a fine left-footed finish after Daly had made the breakthrough in the first half. Toone added a late third after good work from substitute Lauren James.

Alessia Russo should have marked her return to the team with a goal, somehow heading Kelly’s brilliant cross against the post. Beth Mead also went close when she forced a superb stop from Japan keeper Ayaka Yamashita. But England grew in confidence and the breakthrough came when Daly intercepted a clearance to slide home. Kelly (above) added the superb second, before the Lionesses sealed the win late on with Toone’s chipped finish and Park’s simple tap-in.