Wiegman has been in action for England since 2021, having previously worked as the national coach of her home country. With “Oranje” she won the European Championship in 2017 and was also FIFA World Coach of the Year in 2017 and 2020. Her expertise should help England finally win the long-awaited title. Because so far there has not been a World Cup or European Championship victory for the team from the island. Only two defeats in the finals of a European championship (most recently in 2009 against Germany) are recorded. A triumph at the home European Championship would be a sensation and would be the same as what the men missed last year: a successful attempt at “It’s Coming Home”.
Role model Germany?
The upswing that English women’s football has been enjoying for a number of years laid the foundation for the previously strong European Championship. Wiegman formed a strong team from well-trained individual players, which was particularly convincing offensively. But before the duel against Spain, she faces a tactical dilemma: Should the team continue to seek salvation on the offensive or take a role model from the German team, who disenchanted Spain with defensive orientation and merciless efficiency?
Wiegman hints that England will go the ‘German way’: “For us it’s about playing to our strengths and exploiting their weaknesses. Spain have an attacking style of play so we know there will be spaces.” Without world footballer Alexia Putellas, Spain could hardly get through against Germany in the last third and also lacked the necessary penetrating power.
England is also hoping for the same when it comes to action against the Iberians in Brighton. Opponents Spain remain optimistic. At least when it comes to coach Jorge Vilda. “Of course this will be the toughest EURO game so far given the level England are playing at – and they are the hosts with the fans behind them. But that’s something that motivates us,” said the 41-year-old: “We like Challenges.”