England will hope to take another step towards FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 qualification when they face North Macedonia in Skopje on Friday evening.
The Lionesses boast a perfect record so far in their qualifying campaign with Sarina Wiegman’s side having collected 18 points from their six games.
Ahead of England’s latest match, FAWSL Full-Time have reviewed the statistics. Here are four facts which relate to the Lionesses’ clash with North Macedonia.
England have a point to prove
The reverse fixture in Southampton back in September was England boss Wiegman’s first match in charge. The Lionesses won that game 8-0 but Wiegman demanded more from her players after registering 48 shots on goal and 18 on target. After hitting double figures in three of their following five qualifiers, England arguably have something to prove against North Macedonia and scoring 10 or more goals could be the target.
Mead enjoying a sensational campaign for the Lionesses
Arsenal’s Beth Mead has been one of the shining lights for England in FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 qualifying. The forward is The Lionesses’ second-highest goalscorer with eight goals while she is joint-top of the assist chart with eight alongside Manchester City’s Georgia Stanway. Mead will hope to boost those statistics against a North Macedonia side who have conceded 38 goals in six games.
England keep going until the final whistle
One of the most impressive elements to England’s qualifying campaign has been their ability to continue to attack until the final whistle. In total, 34% of England’s 53 goals scored in qualifying have come in the last 15 minutes of matches. As North Macedonian legs become tired, the Lionesses will look to take full advantage.
England’s discipline could be challenged
Friday’s match sees two teams with very different disciplinary records go head-to-head. England have picked up just one booking in six games, Beth Mead being the player who has been cautioned. Meanwhile, North Macedonia have collected eight yellow cards in total. Young midfielder Julija Zivikj has been the biggest offender with the player having been booked on three occasions. If things are not going North Macedonia’s way, they could put in a few tasty challenges.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand 2023 qualifier between North Macedonia and England kicks-off at 7pm on Friday evening.
Statistics: Soccerway
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