BARRING A monumental disaster Hope Powell’s England team can look forward to playing in next summer’s World Cup finals.
The England women’s senior team – who have a better recent tournament record than their male counterparts – were favourites to proceed to next summer’s finals in Germany after eking out a 2-0 first-leg advantage over their Swiss opponents.
Powell’s England go into the second leg (September 16) in Wohlen keen to add to their impressive tournament record.
In the 2007 World Cup finals England’s women reached the quarter-final stage and earlier this year they were beaten finalists in Euro 2010.
Powell said: “The players know what to expect [from the second leg]. They recognise it will be a tough game.
“It’s dangerous because one goal can make such a difference. We have to prepare diligently and stay really focused. It’s not over yet. Please God we get the result.”
Central to England reaching next year’s extravaganza is the experienced Rachel Yankey.
The winger notched her 101 cap in the first leg against the Swiss and if selected her football savvy and know-how will be required to guide England through not only the tricky second leg but also the finals in Germany which take place June 26– July 17.
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