England must defy injuries and dip in form | The Express Tribune
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MANCHESTER: Injuries to key players and a dip in form have left England coach Sarina Wiegman with plenty to ponder if the European champions are to win the Women's World Cup for the first time. Barring a massive shock when the tournament begins on July 20, England should cruise through a group featuring China, Denmark and debutants Haiti. But their path through the knockout stages is loaded with danger, with co-hosts Australia or Olympic champions Canada likely opponents in the last 16. Preparations have not been ideal, a year on from England winning the Euros at a packed Wembley for their first major trophy in women's football. In April, England were held 1-1 by Brazil before winning the first-ever women's Finalissima – a clash between the champions of Europe and South America – on penalties. Their 30-game unbeaten run was then ended by the Australians and Wiegman's team failed to break down Portugal in a 0-0 draw in their only warm-up friendly ear...