Portugal came into the game unbeaten in their last 10 matches – having not tasted defeat since a narrow 1-0 loss by France in December 2023.
They sit 18 places lower than England in the Fifa world rankings but they are not to be underestimated.
England were missing key players including Georgia Stanway, Alex Greenwood, Beth Mead and Lauren Hemp through injury but that didn’t seem to phase them when things initially got going in Portugal.
Manchester United midfielder Grace Clinton slotted into Stanway’s role and was effective, full-back Lucy Bronze was dangerous on the right-hand side and Russo continued her fine goalscoring form to put England ahead.
Wiegman’s side looked in complete control, dominating proceedings and moving the ball around nicely.
But they failed to capitalise and did not extend their lead – something which ultimately proved costly.
“I think when it’s just 1-0 you keep a team in it and the longer it stays 1-0 the more the opposition gets confidence,” Bright told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“We definitely need to be more ruthless in front of goal and take our chances. We need to create a few more as well.”
That was a message repeated by Wiegman, who called for more ruthlessness and admitted she was frustrated they did not add to their tally.
As a result, Portugal responded, using their pace to get in behind England’s backline and a tiring midfield.
“In the second half I was scratching my head thinking it’s a different team,” said former England midfielder Karen Carney on ITV.
“The basics went and that’s when you get punished. There are lessons to be learnt.”
