England struggled to build on a promising start as Portugal held the Lionesses to draw in there Nations League opener in Portimao thanks to Kika Nazareth’s stunning equaliser.
Alessia Russo converted an excellent cross from Lucy Bronze to give Serina Wiegman side the lead in the 15th minute, with the returning Lauren James and Grace Clinton giving the visitors confidence on the ball.
But the Lionesses missed opportunities to add to their lead when they had momentum and lost their way in the second half, with Portugal taking more chances in attack. The hosts were then inspired by the arrival of Kika from the bench, with the Barcelona forward firing a deserved equaliser into the top corner.
England struggled to adapt to Portugal’s tactical changes and desperately missed the presence of Bronze, who was brought off at half time ahead of Wednesday’s game against world champions Spain at Wembley.
The Lionesses will need to improve against Spain, who scored two stoppage-time goals to beat Belgium in the other fixture of Group A3.