Six Problems Sarina Wiegman Must Address Before Euros 2025

England's Shocking Loss to Germany: A Wake-Up Call?

Until Germany's visit on Friday, England had never conceded four goals in a single match under the leadership of coach Sarina Wiegman. This defeat not only marked a grim milestone in defensive performance but also served as a stark reminder of the team's vulnerabilities. The match ended in a close 4-3 scoreline, which flattered England after an overwhelming first half where they conceded three goals, their worst performance in nearly a decade.

Defensive Breakdown: A Lesson Learned

The Lionesses are heading into their European Championship title defence in Switzerland in eight months. In this regard, the defeat could be seen as a blessing in disguise. Jess Carter, a defender for the team, articulated a valuable lesson from the match: "None of us ever want to lose, but if we don't lose, we're never going to learn." This perspective highlights the importance of challenging matches against top opponents like Germany. The lessons learned from this loss could be crucial for preparing for the upcoming Euros.

Key Areas for Improvement

While the final score may not paint the complete picture, there are critical areas that Wiegman and her coaching staff need to focus on in preparation for Euro 2025. Here are six key areas identified that require attention:

1. Defensive Organisation

England's defensive structure was visibly unsteady during the match. Strengthening their backline to prevent similar breakdowns is crucial.

2. Midfield Control

A lack of control in the midfield contributed to their defensive woes. Improving ball retention and distribution will be vital.

3. Set-Piece Strategy

Identifying and executing effective set-piece strategies can help England capitalize on scoring opportunities.

4. Mental Resilience

Building mental toughness to stay focused after conceding goals will greatly benefit the team in high-pressure situations.

5. Fitness Levels

Ensuring players maintain high fitness levels to withstand the demands of international matches is imperative.

6. Continuous Learning

Emphasizing the importance of learning from each game, win or lose, will foster a growth mindset within the team.

Looking Ahead

With three more friendlies slated for 2024, England has ample opportunity to address these issues. Every match will serve as a stepping stone towards readiness for Euro 2025. As the Lionesses regroup, the lessons from the loss to Germany will be instrumental in shaping their strategies and approach moving forward.

Conclusion

While disappointing, this recent performance against Germany may provide the necessary impetus for growth and improvement. For the Lionesses, the focus should be on learning, adapting, and ultimately using this experience to their advantage in future competitions.