The FIFA Women’s World Cup got underway for two Reading stars yesterday; with Jade Moore and England coming out 2-1 winners over Sophie Howard and Scotland in Nice.

Moore did not make an appearance for Phil Neville’s side as the Lionesses kicked off the campaign with a close fought victory.

The midfielder has 46 caps to her name and will be hoping to make a similar impact on the national side as she has for the Royals this campaign.

Thirteen appearances and one goal was a good return, however not quite as prolific as her previous season in which she scored two in 14 matches for Kelly Chambers’ side.

Meanwhile, Howard played 75 minutes for the Auld Enemy at fullback. 

The German-born defender’s solid display will surely see her start on Friday against Japan and maintain her position as first choice for the duration of Scotland’s maiden Women’s World Cup campaign.

It marked her 15th cap for her country since making her debut in 2017, with her only goal being the winner against Jamaica last month. 

Her first campaign in England saw her make six appearances and gain an assist for Reading.

Having had strong campaigns in Germany for Hoffenheim, and even playing twice for the Germany Under-20s side, she moved to Colorado and eventually Berkshire.

Goals from Nikita Parris and Ellen White gave Neville’s side a commanding lead, before Claire Emslie pulled one back for Shelley Kerr's side. 

Looking ahead, Moore will hope to have more of a role for the coming matches. Meanwhile it is just a matter of keeping up appearances for Howard having started the tournament strongly.

England next face Argentina on Friday, while Scotland play Japan.