Sarina Wiegman is urging her England players to maintain composure as they prepare to kick off their Euro 2025 campaign. The Lionesses are set to face France in their tournament opener in Zurich on Saturday, and the England team is focused on managing the heat and the pressure that comes with defending their title.

The team has been training in Switzerland amidst a heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 34 degrees Celsius. To combat the heat, the Lionesses are employing various strategies to keep their body temperatures down. These include using cooling vests, ice boxes, and ice-cold towels during training sessions. Players are also encouraged to stay hydrated and take rests, avoiding going "in and out all the time" to aid recovery. Wiegman highlighted the support from the federation in providing the necessary resources, such as a well-equipped training pitch, gym, and cooling strategies like ice and cryotherapy. The team had already practiced these protocols during their training camp in England, which also experienced high temperatures.

Despite the extreme conditions, Wiegman insists that the heat will not dictate her substitution strategy. Her focus remains on making changes that are necessary to influence the game. The Lionesses are determined to secure their second major trophy, and Wiegman aims for her third consecutive European trophy, having previously won it with the Netherlands in 2017.

Wiegman acknowledged the increased attention and visibility surrounding the team, stating that "there is always noise" before a tournament. However, she reassured that the Lionesses are focused and training effectively. She expressed confidence in her 23-player squad, dismissing any notion of a "crisis" despite recent challenges.

England's preparation included a dominant 7-0 victory over Jamaica in their final warm-up game. Wiegman was pleased with the team's performance, particularly their efficiency in the final third and the fact that six different players scored. She emphasized the need to elevate their game for the tougher challenges ahead. Lauren James made her first appearance since recovering from a hamstring injury, adding to the team's options.

While Wiegman would have preferred more warm-up games, she is satisfied with the preparation the team has had. She believes the current schedule allows for adequate adaptation and recovery, considering the travel to Switzerland. The Lionesses are ready and eager to defend their European title, starting with a crucial match against France.