The Lionesses' Power Play: Unleashing Sarina Wiegman's Winning Tactics

"There is a belief that we are not losing momentum, rather it is growing," commented Sarina Wiegman, reflecting on her inaugural loss as England manager in April. This defeat, carefully chosen by Wiegman herself after 30 games, marked the end of the extraordinary unbeaten run of the Lionesses. While the result of the match held minimal significance, the lessons gained from the experience were invaluable.

Fans would still enjoy the occasion, regardless of the outcome, as the masterplan continues to unfold. Setbacks, if handled effectively, have the potential to elevate great teams to even greater heights.

If the Lionesses were to face a friendly loss against Australia before securing a significant victory in the round of 16 at the World Cup (the earliest opportunity for England to face the tournament co-hosts this summer), many will recall Wiegman's remarks from four months earlier. "She was correct," they will affirm. Momentum should reach its peak within the tournament cycle, rather than months in advance.

The Dutchwomen's approach is built on practicality and meticulousness. Occasionally, she may appear as a strict and hard-hearted figure, but it is her professional demeanor that has turned England from a team plagued by unsuccessful beginnings and near misses into a team of winners.

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Sarina Wiegman has won European honours with the Netherlands and England

Wiegman's new approach, after her European triumph, upholds the essential principles of consistency and unity that have already led to remarkable achievements. However, the challenges she faces now are different. The world's attention is more intense, and the expectations are heavier.

No other coach has ever achieved consecutive continental victories with two different countries – it requires someone truly exceptional. Yet, the global stage is an entirely new territory, with unexplored challenges and even fiercer competition.

There were 333 days between Wiegman's official unveiling and England's trophy triumph the following year. The ascent was swift and unexpected. While England played host to the festivities, they approached the tournament with hope rather than expectation. Yet now, a new phase unfolds - it is no longer time to revel in the European spotlight.

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England pictured in open training at the Sunshine Coast Stadium in Queensland

All eyes are fixed on England's path, particularly now that the so-called 'trauma' described by Wiegman has finally subsided. With their trophy cabinet empty for over half a century, the pressure was intensified by the England men's near-miss with European silverware the previous year. With this weight lifted, what, if anything, has been altered?

Interestingly, Wiegman's tough demeanor as the 'bad cop' seemed to lighten up in the aftermath of the Euros win in 2022. The coach playfully commented on the English population's penchant for excessive drinking, her delivery exuding a cheerful and modest tone.

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Sarina Wiegman takes notes as England take on Portugal in a pre-World Cup friendly

"As England's history-makers proudly displayed their winners' medals during a grand celebration in Trafalgar Square, she observed, 'Having achieved these accomplishments, it is only fitting to throw a party.' Despite the visible signs of exhaustion on their faces from a night of revelry at the Lensbury Hotel, the excitement and elation were still vividly evident.

However, amidst the festive atmosphere, Wiegman couldn't help but ponder about the future. In the depths of her thoughts, new aspirations were taking shape. The gears of ambition were already in motion. The taste of victory only fueled their desire for further achievements."

After guiding her native Netherlands to European glory in 2017, the Dutch coach faced a World Cup final two years later. Though there had been a preceding example, Wiegman's team ultimately suffered a comprehensive defeat to the USA in France. Undoubtedly, this failure will shape and steer Wiegman's strategy in this current endeavor.

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England's squad and staff circle around manager Sarina Wiegman after drawing 0-0 with Portugal

History serves as a valuable instructor, and this 53-year-old individual epitomizes an exemplary learner. "Naturally, we're being thoroughly scrutinized," she acknowledged following her loss to Australia. The heightened focus, stemming from the successes of the previous summer, now poses as England's most formidable challenge.

It's now time to step up our game.

St George's Park has meticulously prepared for the upcoming event, implementing various strategies such as hiring a chrono coach specialized in managing jet lag and fatigue, experimenting with light-filtering glasses, and gradually adjusting sleep patterns to align with Australian time zones.

The Lionesses' progress under Wiegman's guidance can be attributed to incremental improvements. Wiegman emphasizes the importance of maintaining certain principles in their playing style. However, the recent encounter with Australia highlighted the necessity for England to be more adaptable and versatile. Reflecting on the experience, Wiegman admitted that they realized the urgency to improve their defense. Losing was a sobering reminder that their aspirations are matched by high expectations. As Wiegman shared with the BBC, the team has a dream, and they are determined to fulfill it.

Wiegman is not known for variation in her approach. During Euro 2022, the team's success was based on using the same starting lineup and making substitutions at the same times with the same players. It was like a well-oiled machine.

However, tactical variety is now necessary for England's growth. In their most recent match against Portugal, they showed a willingness to try new things. Rachel Daly, who normally plays as a left-back, started as a forward. Lauren James, a traditional winger, was given a chance as a number 10. The entire defensive line also underwent some interesting changes.

England transitioned from Wiegman's favored 4-3-3 formation to a 4-2-3-1. The team's attacking strategy became increasingly sophisticated, although it failed to produce the desired outcome. However, the true challenge lay in the intricate details.

Despite the expectation that England should have easily won the match, it instead caused surprise among observers. Nevertheless, within the team, a sense of calm prevailed. Wiegman's objective was to gather valuable information, which she reassured reporters she had achieved after the game.

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Lauren James was trialled as a No 10 in the second half of England's warm-up friendly vs Portugal

Circle back to the masterplan.

In addition, the World Cup became a more achievable goal once Wiegman became the head coach of England. Building a successful team with a winning mindset takes time, and few believed it could be done in such a short period. However, the key to England's success has been their unwavering self-confidence. Moreover, the same group of support staff has been selected to guide England in this tournament, just as they did in the previous one. This consistency of leadership has provided reassurance and stability for England's young players. Efficiency and a clear process are always prioritized, with Wiegman even confessing to having a pencil by her bedside for important decisions.

The environment at St George's Park is described by her squad as being led by someone who is open and offers encouragement that pushes them. When asked to describe Wiegman's approach, England's all-time leading goalscorer Ellen White exclusively told us, "Sarina is a proven winner who leaves no stone unturned. She excels in communication, is a good person, and genuinely wants to get to know you."

Former English defender Demi Stokes echoed a similar sentiment, stating, "Regardless of whether you're participating in a final or a friendly match, you receive the identical message. She is straightforward and has a clear vision of her desires."

"Sarina remains true to herself and does not alter her approach. This is what distinguishes her as truly genuine."

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Wiegman, the authority figure in the household, demonstrates a consistent willingness to embrace her role as the decision-maker. When questioned about England's World Cup readiness in April, she confidently reassured reporters by stating, "I am not easily concerned. We will be fully prepared."

After all, under Wiegman, the journey is just beginning.

When and where is the 2023 Women's World Cup?

The tournament commences on July 20th, culminating in the final on August 20th at Sydney's Accor Stadium.

The reigning champions, the USA, strive to make history by winning the tournament for the third consecutive time, a feat yet to be achieved in the competition's history.