England's Competitive Edge: Manager Sarina Wiegman Confident and Prepared for Spain in Women's World Cup Final
England and Spain face off in the Women's World Cup final, as manager Sarina Wiegman expresses her satisfaction with her role Captain Millie Bright shares their team's desire to clinch the coveted trophy Forward Mead believes the team's efforts have earned them this opportunity Spain's coach, Vilda, remains tight-lipped about player relations Follow the exciting clash on Sky Sports digital platforms
Sarina Wiegman has confirmed that all 23 players from England are ready to play in Sunday's Women's World Cup final. She also stated that her team is fully prepared for the most significant match of their lives. England will face Spain in Sydney, and this marks their first appearance in the final of the tournament. Furthermore, they aim to secure back-to-back tournament victories following their triumph at the Euros last summer.
Wiegman's side saw off Spain after extra-time in the quarter-finals at the Euros and ahead of their latest meeting, the England boss said: "We watched the game back.
"We have analysed Spain and I think we are ready."
Wiegman, who led the Netherlands to the World Cup final in 2019, stated that there are no injury worries in her team. Additionally, Lauren James is back in action following her suspension for the red card she received against Nigeria in the previous round.
"We have a fully fit and prepared squad," Wiegman remarked. "Our growth has been evident throughout the tournament."
"Lauren was just a moment. We all know it should not be part of football.
"She regretted it. She apologised. She lost her emotions but now she's ready to play again."
Wiegman: I'm very happy with my job
England's women's team coach, Sarina Wiegman, has been rumored to be a potential candidate to replace Gareth Southgate as the manager of the men's team when his tenure concludes.As the first Women's World Cup final in England's history approaches, Wiegman dismissed those assertions by expressing her satisfaction with her current situation. She affirmed, "We have all the necessary support and resources to excel at the highest level. Working with these players is genuinely rewarding."
Wiegman stands out as one of the few female coaches to reach the knockout stages in this World Cup. Impressively, she has outperformed male managers in five out of England's six matches. With her achievements, the Dutchwoman aims to motivate and encourage more women to pursue coaching opportunities. Wiegman expresses her desire for increased gender equality, stating that although progress is being made, there is still room for improvement.
"It's important women see women on the pitch because what you see is what you can be. It's important to keep pushing."
Bright: This is the trophy we always wanted
Millie Bright played a crucial role in England's victorious team during the Euros last year. She has assumed an even more significant position in Australia and New Zealand as the captain, taking charge in the absence of the injured Leah Williamson and guiding her team to the final. Reflecting on her younger self's perspective on leading England in a World Cup final, Bright candidly admitted that her younger self would have deemed it as a silly idea.
Dreams indeed have the power to materialize, and this is a truly momentous occasion. We finally have the opportunity to compete for the coveted trophy that has always been our ultimate goal.
The magnitude of this achievement is widely recognized, as it has been the cherished dream of players for countless years. The significance it holds back in our homeland is undeniable.
"It's massive but it's for everyone. It's an honour and a dream come true to lead the girls out, but ultimately it's the team."
Mead: The team deserves this
Beth Mead, the Arsenal forward who was unable to participate in the World Cup due to an ACL injury, expressed her belief that her England teammates should emerge victorious against Spain on Sunday and win the World Cup. "The girls deserve it and the women's game deserves it," stated Mead.
We are a formidable team, but Spain is equally strong. Our focus lies in the score rather than ball possession.
There is no question that we will bring physicality, strength, and aggression to our encounter with them. With some goals to our name, it will make the viewing experience more enjoyable for our fans.
Mead also anticipates that achieving success in Sydney will further propel the growth of women's football in England. This mirrors the tremendous impact she and her teammates made by winning the Euros. Mead predicts that if they return with a world championship medal, the game could experience an even greater surge in popularity.
"It's going to be an amazing legacy and hopefully we can create an amazing future for the next generation."
Vilda refuses to be drawn on player relations
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Spain's manager, Jorge Vilda, tackled queries regarding the absence of his country's prominent players on the eve of their inaugural Women's World Cup final, despite having faced a rebellion from 15 of his own team members last year.
Less than a year after a mutiny led by 15 players against Vilda, the clash with England will occur. Only three players, namely Aitana Bonmati, Mariona Caldentey, and Ona Batlle, were reintegrated into the squad for the finals. When asked about his relationship with some of his players during his pre-match press conference, Vilda curtly responded, "Next question, please."
When asked about the absence of key players in Australia and whether it made him feel "sad," Vilda avoided addressing the question directly. Instead, he emphasized their goal of becoming the best in the world and expressed confidence in winning the final. Stay updated on the Spain vs England match through We's digital platforms with our live blog. Also, catch the pre-match coverage on We News. Kick-off is at 11am.
