England Women lost their first match after their European Championship triumph, going down 2-1 to Brazil in a friendly at the Etihad Stadium.
Brazil created the game’s first chance inside three minutes, with Ludmila being put through on goal, but she slipped on her way to firing a shot.
England attacked at the other end, with Alessia Russo playing Ella Toone through on goal, but goalkeeper Lorena quickly came off her line to clear the danger.
Brazil took the lead in the ninth minute after a brilliant counter-attacking move, which Bia Zaneratto finished.
The visitors doubled their lead in the 18th minute when Dudinha scored after Toone gave away the ball cheaply.
Their momentum was halted three minutes later when Angelina received a straight red card for a foul on Toone.
England nearly pulled one back from the resultant free-kick, which Alex Greenwood struck against the woodwork.
Toone then squandered a chance for England, sending her effort wide from Beth Mead’s dangerous low cross.
Dudinha nearly added to Brazil’s advantage after England failed to clear their lines, firing a shot wide of the far post.
The Lionesses were awarded a penalty in the 50th minute after a foul on Mead. Georgia Stanway stepped up to convert, dispatching the spot-kick beyond the reach of the outstretched Brazilian goalkeeper.
Aggie Beever-Jones almost made an immediate impact, but her effort was blocked. Stanway struck the woodwork again seven minutes from time, and Brazil hung on to claim the win.
England are back in action on Tuesday evening against Australia at Pride Park.
