England were beaten for the first time under Sarina Wiegman as Australia ran out 2-0 winners at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium.
While perspective is needed given their stunning success under Wiegman, England were dealt something of a reality check.
Chelsea forward Sam Kerr, rested for the Matildas’ shock loss to Scotland on Saturday, pounced when Leah Williamson did not put enough on a header back to Mary Earps in the Lionesses goal.
It was a world class finish and a reminder that, for all of their progress, even the slightest mistake can be punished by moments of quality.
In the pouring rain in west London, the home side struggled. Without Mille Bright and Alex Greenwood in defence, they could not deal with a more direct approach and little about their passing game proved convincing.
When Charlotte Grant drifted in at the back post and saw her header deflected off Williamson and past Earps, it was little more than Australia deserved.
