Stanway's Masterclass Leads England Rout
The Lionesses delivered an emphatic statement of intent at a packed Wembley Stadium on Saturday evening, overwhelming China with an eight-goal demolition that showcased their formidable attacking prowess. In a performance brimming with quality, Georgia Stanway emerged as the standout performer, scoring a magnificent hat-trick that cemented her status as one of England's most vital players.
A Midfield Maestro in Full Flow
The 26-year-old midfielder joined an elite group, becoming only the third Lioness to score a hat-trick at the national stadium alongside Beth Mead and Aggie Beever-Jones. Her contribution extended beyond the three goals, with a complete midfield display that combined tenacious defending with creative vision and lethal finishing. Since manager Sarina Wiegman took charge in 2021, Stanway has been indispensable, forming a formidable partnership with Keira Walsh that represents the engine room of this England team.
What made Stanway's performance particularly remarkable was the variety of her goals, each demonstrating a different aspect of her evolving game. Her first came from pure instinct, reacting quickest to a parried save from China's goalkeeper Pan Hongyan and driving the ball home from the edge of the area. Just before halftime, she displayed nerves of steel from the penalty spot, converting her 13th consecutive penalty for England.
Telepathic Teamwork Seals Historic Night
The crowning moment arrived with her third goal, a slick team move that highlighted the understanding she has developed with her teammates. After receiving from Lucy Bronze, she played a quick one-two with Ella Toone before breaking into the box and finishing with precision. This completed a historic personal achievement while contributing to a collective performance that will send shockwaves through women's football.
While Stanway rightfully claimed the headlines, this was far from a one-woman show. Beth Mead appeared back to her devastating best, combining effectively with Bronze down the right flank, while Lauren Hemp marked her return to international duty with a goal. Alessia Russo delivered a selfless performance, constantly pulling China's defence out of position and deservedly getting on the scoresheet in the 78th minute.
The victory, witnessed by 74,611 fans at Wembley, served as a stark contrast to England's occasional struggles against defensive opponents in recent years. Though questions remain about their untested defence, with debutant goalkeeper Anna Moorhouse rarely troubled, the attacking display provided a clear message: this England team remains a formidable force with no intention of slowing down.
