Do Lionesses lack ruthlessness in front of goal?

England's women's national team secured a 3-1 victory over Greece in their Women's World Cup qualifying play-off first leg, but critics argue they could have been more ruthless in front of goal. The Lionesses had 74% possession in the match but only managed three goals from 26 shots, while Greece also hit the crossbar with a powerful strike. England's manager Sarina Wiegman has expressed a desire for more ruthlessness in their attacking play, especially in the upcoming second leg against Greece at Leicester on Tuesday.

Wiegman noted that while England have created chances and shown attacking potential, they have struggled to convert these opportunities. Midfielder Keira Walsh noted that the team is creating chances and has good possession in the final third, but the worrying aspect would be if they were not arriving in the box. Arsenal midfielder Georgia Stanway, England's top scorer since Euro 2025, has stepped up to the challenge with 10 goals in the tournament.

Former England striker Ellen White believes that building connections and setting the right tempo are crucial for converting chances into goals. She emphasized the importance of midfield players dictating the rhythm and having connections with players in the box. However, England have struggled to perform consistently, failing to win any games where they trailed since the end of Euro 2025.

The team has had 11 different goal scorers since Euro 2025, but has not won any games with a trailing score, losing to Brazil and Spain instead.