Mary Earps shines in clean sheet against USA
- England held the USA to a goalless draw in a friendly match at Wembley Stadium.
- Mary Earps made key saves, achieving a significant clean sheet after a recent defeat.
- The match indicates progress for England as they prepare for future competitions.
In a goalless friendly match held at Wembley Stadium in England, the national women's football team faced off against the United States on November 30, 2024. This match, which drew an impressive crowd of 78,346 spectators, was a display of determination and resilience from the English side as they held the world’s top-ranked team to a draw. While the English team spent much of the match on the defensive, they were successful in limiting the goalmouth action against them and secured a clean sheet, marking a significant improvement over their recent performance against Germany, where they suffered a disappointing 4-3 loss. England's goalkeeper, Mary Earps, played a crucial role in the match, re-establishing her credentials as a reliable last line of defense. Her performance included several key saves that contributed to the clean sheet, helping to restore some confidence in a squad that has been inconsistent in recent months. Upon her return to the No. 1 jersey, Earps demonstrated her ability to perform under pressure, which was vital in maintaining England's competitive stance against a vastly experienced opponent. Despite the positive defensive display, England's attack was somewhat lackluster. Their offensive efforts struggled to match the skill and flair of the United States, which is considered one of the best teams in women’s football. England will look forward to the return of players like Lauren Hemp and Lauren James, who are expected to bolster the attacking options and improve the overall team performance in future matches. As the year approaches its end, this draw could signal a turning point for England in their preparations for upcoming competitions. The clean sheet is a critical aspect for Sarina Wiegman's side as they continue to build a solid foundation that can compete with the top teams in women's football. This match, rather than being viewed as a missed opportunity for a win, is recognized as a step forward for the team's development and confidence.