Miedema facing awkward return home after knocking Mead out of Olympics

The Netherlands and Arsenal star helped her country secure a 4-0 win over Belgium in their Nations League clash on Tuesday.

That meant England Women missed out on qualification by two goals, as they failed to top their group on goal difference despite thrashing Scotland 6-0 on the same night.

But as the Netherlands wildly celebrated qualifying thanks to two late goals, Miedema's partner and fellow Arsenal star Beth Mead was 600 miles away, unable to hold back her emotions as her country were knocked out.

The Lionesses winger scored her first England goal since recovering from her ACL injury on the night, but a spot in the remaining Nations League fixtures and the Olympics wasn't meant to be.

When asked about the prospect of returning home to her partner after Tuesday's results, the WSL's all-time top scorer Miedema admitted the pair had already discussed the possible outcomes.

MORE ON FOOTBALL

Will Still on Sunderland shortlist - but there's a stumbling block in pursuit of FM hero

Fans in disbelief as reality TV star spotted on Luton Town's bench for Arsenal clash

"I hope you are very disappointed when I see you next time," Miedema said she joked to Mead as the pair said goodbye for the last two Nations League matches, speaking to Dutch outlet NU.

"I think that when I come home on Thursday, it will be quite quiet in the house," she continued. "From the moment you know that you are in the same group, you know that someone will sit at home disappointed in the summer.

"Of course, it can also be that way, that we are both at home."

Despite coming out on top, Miedema's mind went straight to her partner after the final whistle.

Most read in Football

Amazon Prime fixtures this week, kick-off times and how to watch games for FREE

talkSPORT hosts clash over whether to drop David Raya as Arsenal fans despair over errors

Limbs in Arsenal camp as Rice stoppage-time winner gives them win in seven-goal thriller

Will Still on Sunderland shortlist - but there's a stumbling block in pursuit of FM hero

"I have already sent her a text saying that I am proud that she has scored for the first time," she said, talking about Mead's comeback from her injury.

"She has also started in the starting line-up. These are huge milestones for her."