We’ll never know what Steph Houghton and Jill Scott are saying to each other in this picture after the testing encounter with Argentina, but the above can’t have been far from their thoughts.
The City pair, two of England’s most experienced and influential campaigners, embraced after the Lionesses emerged unscathed from a physical and occasionally frustrating match against La Albiceleste.
But the job was done when Jodie Taylor tapped home on the hour mark to give Phil Neville’s side a 1-0 win, after Nikita Parris had a penalty saved.
With more than 200 international caps between them, Houghton and Scott have enjoyed the highs and suffered the lows with their country, but this moment will no doubt have been an embrace of satisfaction.
Though England were in control throughout, Argentina made life difficult with an uncompromising style and a resolute defence.
Yet the Lionesses found a way to win, reaching the last 16 of the tournament with a group stage game to spare and ensuring they maintained the momentum from their opening win against Scotland.
With multiple World Cups under their belt, both Houghton and Scott will be well aware of just how valuable momentum can be in tournament football.
Cue: A big post-match hug.
