Unveiling the Ultimate UEFA Nations League Showdown: England Women vs Netherlands - A Battle of the Titans!
England Women's boss Wiegman eagerly anticipates a momentous UEFA Nations League clash against the Netherlands The Lionesses aim to secure a qualification spot for the Paris 2024 Olympics, with Alessia Russo available for the match Wiegman also pays tribute to the remarkable trailblazer, Rapinoe
England coach Sarina Wiegman acknowledges the significance of facing her home country, the Netherlands, in the Nations League clash on Tuesday in Utrecht. Wiegman, who previously played for the Dutch national team, led them to victory in the Euro 2017 tournament held on their home turf and also guided them to the runners-up position in the 2019 World Cup in France.
The 53-year-old, who has since replicated those managerial accomplishments with England, expressed during a press conference that returning to her home country with the Lionesses was a pleasant experience but also slightly unusual, as she recollected some memories.
She further expressed her anticipation for the upcoming match, emphasizing the significance of playing against the opposing team in such a unique setting.
I am familiar with everyone, both the staff and the players, as we have a strong relationship. Many familiar faces will be present in the stands during the match. This is England's second game in Group A1, following their victory over Scotland in Sunderland on Friday. Meanwhile, the Netherlands had a disappointing start to their campaign with a 2-1 loss against Belgium.
Wiegman said: "We had a good review on the (Scotland) match.
Image:
Wiegman played and managed the Dutch national team
We aim to improve certain aspects while maintaining excellence in areas we have performed well. Our goal is to elevate our performance to new heights. These were the main points of our discussion, and tomorrow we will continue our efforts.
When analyzing the statistics of the match against Belgium, the Netherlands had an impressive performance. However, as the game progressed, they encountered some unfortunate circumstances which Belgium successfully capitalized on.
They are determined to perform at their best as their ultimate objective is to finish first in the group. Therefore, after experiencing the initial defeat, they are highly motivated to excel tomorrow and achieve a favorable outcome. This is our anticipation.
The Nations League provides an opportunity for two teams to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics. England, representing the home nations, is specifically focused on earning a place for Great Britain.
To do that they will need to win their group to advance to the Nations League's last four, and then reach the final, or come third should France make the final.
Image:
Wiegman is looking to build on the Scotland result
Wiegman confirmed the availability of her entire squad, including Alessia Russo, who was previously absent from the Scotland match due to her late joining the group after recovering from playing in Arsenal's Champions League qualifying matches earlier this month. Accompanying Wiegman at the press conference was Lauren Hemp, the forward responsible for England's second goal in the game against Scotland.
The 23-year-old player from Manchester City praised the Dutchwoman, stating that Sarina is an exceptional coach. Since she took charge, the team has reached new heights, and personally, the player feels that they are constantly learning and improving. Under Sarina's guidance, confidence has grown steadily, and the player finds her coaching abilities to be incredible.
Wiegman salutes 'trailblazer' Rapinoe
Image:
Megan Rapinoe has called time on her USA career
Wiegman praised Megan Rapinoe for her significant impact on women's football and society as a whole. After playing her last game for the United States and securing a 2-0 victory over South Africa, the two-time World Cup champion received a well-deserved tribute. Wiegman stated, "I consider her to be one of the most pivotal players. The US has paved the way for women's football and has also made advancements for women's standing in society."
"I believe it is essential for us to express our gratitude for the remarkable legacy she has left behind. I hold a great amount of admiration for her."
When it comes to her own players instigating transformation, she further commented, "I genuinely believe that this particular team of women is highly aware of the state of our society, and they are utilizing their influential platform in a constructive manner to bring about significant societal change."
"They are so outspoken and well spoken, they articulate themselves so well."
