![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://uknews.evprotec.com/faye-white-assesses-englands-world-cup-chances-as-under-the-radar-rival-named/&media=https://uknews.evprotec.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2_GettyImages-1401175883.jpg&description=White - speaking at the opening of the new M&S Food store inside Wembley Stadium - believes Nigeria will make Monday's Round of 16 clash tough for England Former Lioness Faye White believes England can expect a "tough" game against Nigeria in the Women's World Cup Round of 16 - but says Sarina Wiegman's side can beat anyone at this summer's tournament. The Lionesses turned on the style in their 6-1 win over China last time out, topping Group D after scoring three consecutive group stage victories. Chelsea forward Lauren James stole the show in Adelaide, netting twice and registering three assists to fire England through to the knockout stages. Wiegman's side will now take on Nigeria, who are so far unbeaten at this summer's tournament, having taken points off co-hosts Australia, Olympic champions Canada, and the Republic of Ireland. But, while the Super Falcons are ranked 40th in the world, White says England could be in for a challenging contest when they step out at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium on Monday. "The fact that they beat Australia shows they're not fazed and they're confident with their game plan," White said, analysing the Lionesses' next opponents. "That's where I can see they've developed from when I played Nigeria. They're a lot more organised and defensively sound. They used to be quite erratic at the back when I played them so they've really developed and learned the ability to frustrate teams. It's going to be a physical and tough game, with lots of moments of transition." White knows first hand the rigours of international football, having captained the Lionesses for a decade between 2002 and 2012. The former Arsenal defender competed at five major tournaments over the course of her career and says a World Cup is the "pinnacle" of a footballer's career. "It's a nerve wracking moment because you know what's at stake but it's your dream come true really. Having put in all the hard work, training and travelling and sometimes even balancing it with othe){kind=link}
White – speaking at the opening of the new M&S Food store inside Wembley Stadium – believes Nigeria will make Monday’s Round of 16 clash tough for England
Former Lioness Faye White believes England can expect a “tough” game against Nigeria in the Women’s World Cup Round of 16 – but says Sarina Wiegman’s side can beat anyone at this summer’s tournament.
The Lionesses turned on the style in their 6-1 win over China last time out, topping Group D after scoring three consecutive group stage victories. Chelsea forward Lauren James stole the show in Adelaide, netting twice and registering three assists to fire England through to the knockout stages.
Wiegman’s side will now take on Nigeria, who are so far unbeaten at this summer’s tournament, having taken points off co-hosts Australia, Olympic champions Canada, and the Republic of Ireland. But, while the Super Falcons are ranked 40th in the world, White says England could be in for a challenging contest when they step out at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Monday.
“The fact that they beat Australia shows they’re not fazed and they’re confident with their game plan,” White said, analysing the Lionesses’ next opponents.