‘We weren’t scared’ – Maestre praises London City’s bravery and goalscorer Goodwin after draw with Arsenal

London City Lionesses boss Eder Maestre praised his side’s fearless approach in their 1-1 draw with Arsenal and believes goalscorer Izzy Goodwin is making a strong case for an England call-up.

Goodwin cancelled out Frida Maanum’s early opener at the Emirates Stadium, with London City producing an impressive performance to secure a valuable point.

The result keeps London City six points ahead of Arsenal in the Women’s Super League table, strengthening their position in the race for Champions League qualification.

But Maestre insisted his side had travelled to north London with ambitions of winning rather than simply taking a point.

“I’m exhausted,” he admitted when asked how he felt watching the game from the touchline.

“Because we came here to take risks. We really wanted to win today.

“I think we were brave today. We weren’t scared about the context, about the opponent, the stadium, nothing. We tried to play as we play at home.

“But me as a coach, I want to feel that my teams are brave to look for the wins. It doesn’t matter what is the context.”

Maestre was particularly pleased with his players’ willingness to compete with Arsenal, believing their performance demonstrated how far the team have progressed.

“I think the performance was there,” he said.

“Considering all the factors that surround the game, I think we had the chance to score a better result.

“But as well, we need to understand that Arsenal has the opportunities to have the chances. I think the game was very open.”

Goodwin’s impressive equaliser was another highlight for London City, with the forward continuing to develop under Maestre.

With England head coach Sarina Wiegman watching from the stands, Maestre was asked whether Goodwin had done enough to put herself in contention for international recognition.

“I think Izzy is becoming a more mature player since last year,” he said.

“I think it’s due to the competition, the inner competition that she has every time. So the signings sometimes push you to bring that 100% every time.

“I think Izzy is in the commitment to keep pushing. I think the performance that she’s having, why not?”