If Holland proceed to win their home tournament on Sunday, a feat that now seems distinctly likely, then at least four Arsenal players will begin the Women’s Super League season with a spring in their step. This was a deserved, desolating defeat for England and, just as much, an exuberant, convincing victory for the Dutch; it will be little consolation it also served notice of the depth of talent available in the WSL.
The buildup had focused on the five‑goal haul of the England centre‑forward Jodie Taylor; of far more relevance afterwards were the contributions of Vivianne Miedema and Danielle van de Donk, her club-mates in north London, whose alertness and finishing were at a level their opponents simply could not match. It led to a euphoric post‑match scene in Enschede, where Millie Bright’s own goal with the final kick of the game serving only to cast a harsher light on England’s second-half degeneration.
Related: England’s Euro 2017 dream ends at hands of Van de Donk inspired Holland
Related: Denmark reach Euro 2017 final after penalty shootout win over Austria
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