Sarina Wiegman faces a significant challenge in the UEFA Women's Euro 2025, needing to reinvigorate England's squad and strategy after a disappointing start. The Lionesses, defending champions from their 2022 triumph, suffered a 2-1 defeat against France in their opening match, exposing vulnerabilities that Wiegman is keen to address.
Wiegman's initial assessment of the France game highlighted England's early promise, which was undone by tactical errors. She noted the team started well but then played themselves "a bit out of the game by playing short passes which really helped them". Wiegman emphasized the need to bypass the initial press and play with more penetration. She acknowledged France's strength on the counter-attack, driven by their powerful and fast players, which England struggled to contain.
Looking ahead, Wiegman is determined to make improvements, stating, "We can do better". She believes England "caused our own problems" against France and aims to simplify their approach in upcoming matches. The immediate focus is on rectifying mistakes before their crucial game against the Netherlands. Wiegman brings unique insight into this match, having led the Dutch team to victory at Euro 2017.
Wiegman is known for her tactical acumen and ability to adapt her strategies based on the opposition and the players at her disposal. She has a proven track record in the European Championships, having won the title with both the Netherlands and England. However, she recognizes that the women's game is constantly evolving, requiring continuous development and fresh approaches.
The England squad is undergoing a transition, with several new players joining the team. Wiegman sees this as a new challenge and is focused on integrating these players with the experienced core to create a cohesive and effective unit. She is also keen to ensure that players are settled and focused, as evidenced by her satisfaction with Chloe Kelly's club future being resolved before the tournament.
The Lionesses face a tough group in Euro 2025, with matches against France, the Netherlands, and Wales. Wiegman views these games as "three finals straight away," underscoring the intensity and importance of each match. She recognizes the strengths of each opponent, including France's top-level players and the Netherlands' tactical prowess. She is also aware of the rivalry and motivation that Wales will bring to the tournament.
Despite the challenges, Wiegman remains optimistic about England's chances. She is driven by a desire to "chase more" and build on past successes. She believes that England has the potential to reach the next level and is determined to showcase the team's quality on the European stage.
