Hosts raise a glass to Mead as Euro 2022 gets off to a record-breaking start

Beth Mead scored the only goal as hosts England got their Euro 2022 campaign off to a flying start with a 1-0 victory over Austria.

The Arsenal forward netted after 16 minutes in front of a record and exuberant crowd in the opening Group A fixture at Old Trafford.

The celebrations were delayed slightly as goalline technology was required to judge whether Mead’s lob and had crossed the line before Carina Wenninger’s attempted clearance hit the bar but the goal was given.

Lauren Hemp went close to adding a second while goalkeeper Mary Earps denied Austria’s Barbara Dunst after the break.

England, who are now unbeaten with 13 wins from 15 games under manager Sarina Wiegman, continue their campaign when they face Norway at the Amex Stadium next Monday.

The crowd of 68,871 at Old Trafford set a new record for a crowd at a women’s Euros match. The previous highest was 41,301 for the 2013 final between Germany and Norway in Stockholm.

What an amazing night. It's great to start the tournament with a win and I'm glad to get a goal for my team. I was pretty sure it went over but you always doubt yourself when there's a little bit (of time) in between.- Beth Mead

England are one of the favourites but they would be breaking new ground if they win the tournament. Their two best performances in the event to date were runners-up finishes in 1984 and 2009.

Captain Marissa Callaghan insists Northern Ireland are not making up numbers as she prepares to lead her country into their first major tournament.

The veteran Cliftonville midfielder has declared herself fit and ready for Thursday’s clash with Norway in Southampton after making a rapid recovery from a broken foot.

Northern Ireland are easily the lowest-ranked team in the competition