‘We are getting closer’ – England build momentum with Belgium win

Midfielder Walsh felt it was a “free-flowing” performance from the team – and it could not have been a better night for her personally.

The 27-year-old had never experienced the feeling of scoring a senior goal for her country before Friday.

Wiegman said there was “joy” afterwards for Walsh – and the team joked it was an own goal because her strike took a deflection before beating Belgium goalkeeper Nicky Evrard.

“I’m really excited. It took a big deflection – but a goal is a goal,” said Walsh afterwards.

“All the girls are super happy for me which is a really nice feeling. I finally got one in the end. A few of them like to remind me how long it’s taken, but I’m over the moon and it’s really good to be off the mark.

“It’s up there as one of my favourite games. In general with the team performance, we played a lot of good attacking football and it was a nice evening to be part of.”

Walsh was not the only one to experience the delight of a first England goal as Chelsea team-mate Beever-Jones came off the bench to score.

The 21-year-old forward’s maiden goal came on her fourth appearance, having received a first call-up in May last year.

“I actually can’t quite believe it. It hasn’t hit me just yet. I think I was more buzzing for Keira [Walsh] if I’m honest,” said Beever-Jones.

“I played at this stadium before and scored before, so I had a good feeling coming into it.

“I pride myself on keeping my feet on the ground and working hard and with a lot of hard work you get moments like this. I’m so happy that I took it well. It is so surreal and a dream come true.”