Michelle Agyemang Shines with Debut Goal for England Despite Defeat to Belgium
On a chilly Tuesday night in the UEFA Women’s Nations League, a new star emerged for the England Women’s team. Seventeen-year-old Michelle Agyemang, currently on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion from Arsenal, lit up the pitch with a sensational debut goal—just moments after stepping onto the field.
Called up on short notice to replace Alessia Russo, Agyemang joined the squad only two days before the clash with Belgium. Despite the late inclusion, the teenager wasted no time in making her presence felt.
England faced an uphill battle from the start. Belgium opened the scoring just four minutes in through Tessa Wullaert, who would later double her tally in the 29th minute. Justine Vanhaevermaet added another in the 16th minute, putting England in a difficult position. Bethany Mead offered a glimmer of hope before halftime with a well-taken penalty, narrowing the score to 3-1.
But the night belonged to Agyemang. Substituted in the 80th minute for Jessica Park, the forward—of Ghanaian descent—took less than a minute to announce herself on the international stage. With a stunning volley, she brought England within touching distance of a comeback.
Although the Lionesses ultimately fell short, losing 3-2, Agyemang’s debut goal was a bright spark and a promise of things to come.