Sarina Wiegman: Does she have what it takes to inspire the Lionesses to another European title?

In Sarina We Trust…Or Do We?

The Lionesses kickstarted their UEFA Women’s European Championship as Champions of the last, forcing them to defend their title in this year’s tournament. Sarina Wiegman’s England are looking to continue this winning legacy and go all the way.

Ahead of the EUROs, the Lionesses played a send-off friendly against Jamaica, winning 7-0. That should have kept them in high spirits for the first game, but this does not prove to be the case. The defending champions faced a narrow 2-1defeat to France in their opening fixture. Although, this does not define the rest of their journey in the EUROs, as there are still two games to be played to determine whether they qualify for the knockout rounds.

England suffered a very tough draw in the group stages: France, the Netherlands and Wales. This raises questions whether Sarina’s tactics for the EUROs should remain the same as those that won the tournament in 2022, or whether she should switch them up?

The starting lineup

 It is no secret that Wiegman likes consistency in her starting line-up. The starting eleven against France were even used in their first FIFA Women’s World Cup match against Haiti in 2023. Currently several key players are absent from the squad, including Vice-Captain, Millie Bright, due to protecting her mental and physical wellbeing, and Mary Earps and Rachel Daly, following their international retirement. Therefore, Wiegman’s lineup is predictable and usually revolves around these players:

Leah Williamson, Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood, and Jess Carter, as a back four. Then

Kiera Walsh, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone/Lauren James, in the midfield. Finally, Lauren Hemp, Alessia Russo, and Beth Mead/Chloe Kelly in forward positions.

It is perfectly understandable that Wiegman trusts this team to produce positive results, based on past experiences. Other teams, however, are growing and evolving in terms of players, manager tactics, and strategy. This was very much the case with the French team in the opening match of the EUROs. Despite the omission of Captain, Wendie Renard and top goalscorer, Eugénie Le Sommer, other players performed at their best on the big stage. For example, Sandy Baltimore and Marie-Antoinette Katoto, who put themselves on the scoresheet to win the match.

If this is the case for the opposition, should England still be sticking with the same starting team? They become quite easily predictable to their opponents, diminishing their fear factor and threat to other nations. Arguably, these factors must be maintained, as defending champions. In fact, beating England appears easier for their opponents, as they can analyse and use the Lionesses’ inevitable starting lineup to fuel their tactics. Whilst they cannot be one hundred percent certain, they can make an estimated guess. After all, even fans can predict Wiegman’s lineup.

The importance of unpredictable tactics

 Other criticisms of the Lionesses’ performance surrounded the lack of strength within the midfield. France were able to play with ease through the middle, causing England’s defence to consequently cover the wide areas. It is common knowledge that the team is often centred around Walsh, but this could need further experimentation now other nations are evolving. She was very heavily marked throughout the game, as her contributions to the flow of play are recognised. But her ability to step up on the international stage should never be underestimated, as she did score an impressive goal to bring some momentum back into England’s game in the dying minutes.

 There is no doubt that England are a top team; they have so much talent, skill and experience. Perhaps this should be utilised more. Some experimentation with different players in her 3-4-3 formation could be worth implementing. Young players, including Jess Park, Grace Clinton and Niamh Charles, have proved in previous games that they can rise up to the occasion that is playing for their country. Naturally, youngsters have an energy and hunger for the game like no other. This is evident in so many international squads.  

Yet, James starting was unexpected for many England fans, especially given that she has only recently recovered from a hamstring injury. However, it does make sense to include the Chelsea midfielder, as her stamina and footwork under pressure could prove essential to break down a strong defence. She replaced Ella Toone against France, who was a substitute in the second half.

Considering the thoughts of professionals in the women’s game, Ian Wright suggests in his podcast co-hosted with Steph Houghton, ‘Crossways’, that James may be more suited to the role of an impact player, bringing up energy levels. This is something that was evident in the World Cup. Perhaps this could become a stronger element of the head coach’s tactical game, saving world-class players as substitutes to enter the pitch and change the game.

Is keeping morale up the key to success?

All that being said, to face a nation as threatening as France in the opening fixture of a major tournament brings many mental challenges. Typically, England need to open the scoring for a boost in confidence and morale. Whilst Russo netted what she thought was the opener only fifteen minutes in, morale was significantly impacted when this was ruled offside with a tight VAR call.

However, the Lionesses cannot be discounted. It would seem there is a correlation to England losing a game and then providing a world-class comeback. The level of football in major tournaments is unmatched, and the Lionesses were humbled, inspiring them to prove themselves to the fans and audiences globally as a successful and driven team.

For a long time Wiegman’s squad have been riding the highs of success and victory, so a loss to France could be the inevitable moment that brings back their spark. With two matches left to qualify for the knockouts, it is all or nothing for England. They are set to face the Netherlands and Wales, these being two must-win clashes. Before joining the Lionesses coaching team, Wiegman worked as the Netherlands’ head coach; she will certainly use any knowledge of the team to her advantage.

Overall, the Dutchwoman should not be ruled out just yet. Ultimately, without Wiegman at the helm, the Lionesses would not have made history, becoming European Champions in their home EUROs. This historic event will not be forgotten and permanently drives the team of Champions to follow their dreams. Now they will look to do it all over again, with fans behind them every step of the way in Switzerland.