Arsenal captain Leah Williamson made her return from injury for England as the Lionesses beat Iceland 1-0 in Reykjavik in a World Cup qualifier on Friday night. The defender started the match after recovering from the hamstring problem that has kept her sidelined since last month, though she was substituted at halftime as a precautionary measure.

Williamson’s last appearance for Arsenal came against London City Lionesses before the injury forced her to miss several crucial matches including the FA Cup quarter final defeat to Brighton. Sarina Wiegman carefully managed her comeback, replacing her with Arsenal teammate Lotte Wubben Moy at the interval.

Russo Celebrates England 500th International With Goal

Alessia Russo scored the only goal of the game to settle England’s 500th international match, finishing clinically in the 21st minute. The Arsenal striker made a difficult finish look simple after Lauren Hemp drove through the middle and released her to slot low into the bottom corner.

Beth Mead also featured for the Lionesses, coming on as a substitute for Lauren James after 64 minutes to give Arsenal three representatives on the pitch during the second half.

Wiegman Explains Williamson Substitution Decision

After the match, England manager Wiegman clarified why Williamson was withdrawn at halftime despite appearing in good condition. “As we’ve said throughout the campaign, we want to be careful with it,” Wiegman explained. “She was in very good shape. If it was absolutely necessary, she could play more.”

The cautious approach suggests Williamson could be available for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures, though Renee Slegers will likely manage her minutes carefully as the Gunners chase second place in the WSL and defend their Champions League crown.

Also read: Leah Williamson Ruled Out of Arsenal’s Champions League Quarter Final Against Chelsea – Here’s Why

Hinata Miyazawa was in action for Japan as they lost 3-0 to the United States in their third friendly match during the April international break.

The Manchester United Women midfielder was given a start but was unable to help her side avoid defeat which is disappointing given her excellent club form this season.

The 26 year old has enjoyed a successful campaign at United becoming Marc Skinner’s go to midfield option in the centre of the park. She has started 17 league games this season after previously struggling to secure a permanent role in the team.

Completed 85 Percent of Passes

Miyazawa completed 85 percent of her passes in the match but was unable to produce any key passes during the game. In her 60 minutes on the pitch she was also unable to deliver a successful cross for her teammates which highlights the difficulty Japan faced breaking down the American defence.

The midfielder was spot on with her long balls completing 100 percent of her attempts to show off her passing range against the Americans. She also won one duel and completed two interceptions in the match which demonstrates her defensive contribution.

Return to England for Vital Matches

Miyazawa will now return to England where United face three vital matches to end the season as they aim to secure Champions League football for next season. The Red Devils will travel to face Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday April 26 at 12:00 BST which represents a crucial fixture.

United are battling to finish in the top three which would guarantee Champions League qualification. Miyazawa’s form will be key to their chances with the midfielder having established herself as an important player under Skinner which is absolutely brilliant to see after her uncertain start to the campaign earlier in the season.

Also read: Arsenal Women vs. Aston Villa WSL Fixture Rescheduled to ‘This’ Date as Champions League Semi Final Progression Forces Date Change

Iranian women football players Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh have thanked the Australian government for offering a safe haven.

The two players said they wished to resume their sporting careers after rebuilding their lives in their first public comments since being granted humanitarian visas.

The players said in a statement on Friday the compassion and support shown to them had provided hope for a future where they could live and compete in safety which is absolutely crucial for their wellbeing and development as elite athletes.

Deepest Gratitude to Australian Government

The duo expressed their appreciation to Australian officials in their statement. “We wish to express our deepest gratitude to the Australian government and particularly Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke for granting us humanitarian protection and a safe haven in this beautiful country,” they said.

Australia initially granted humanitarian visas to six players and one support staff member from the Iranian squad after their Asian Cup campaign in Australia began. Five of the group subsequently changed their minds and decided to return home leaving only Pasandideh and Ramezanisadeh in Australia.

Training With Brisbane Roar Already

The duo began training with the A-League Women’s team Brisbane Roar last month which demonstrates their commitment to continuing their football careers. “At this stage our primary focus is on our safety, our health and beginning the process of rebuilding our lives,” they explained.

They added: “We are elite athletes and it remains our dream to continue our sporting careers here in Australia,” which is frankly inspiring given the difficult circumstances they have faced.

Concerns over the Iranian players’ safety surfaced after several players did not sing the national anthem at an Asian Cup match. Iranian state TV labelled them wartime traitors, which created a dangerous situation for those who remained with the squad.

Also read: Natalia Arroyo Position Safe at Aston Villa Women as Investment Promised Ahead of Next Season Despite Ninth Place Finish