The Remarkable Journey of Sarina Wiegman
Just two years after guiding England to victory in the Euro 2023 final, Sarina Wiegman is on the cusp of history. Should she lead the Lionesses to back-to-back European titles on Sunday, July 27, the Dutch manager will become the first in history to reach the final of all five major international tournaments—World Cups and European Championships—at which she has managed.
This remarkable feat reflects not only her exceptional coaching abilities but also a deeply personal connection with her players. Known for her calm demeanor, honesty, and empathetic leadership, Wiegman has built a style that is as much about heart as it is about tacticsA Legacy of Emotional and Tactical Brilliance
Wiegman's approach is often characterized by a balance of pragmatism and passion. Her ability to motivate her team on the eve of crucial matches has become legendary. Midfielder Ella Toone praised Wiegman's pre-game speeches, describing them as pivotal, particularly in the semi-final against Italy: "Sarina's words before the game gave us the motivation we needed. Even when we've gone a goal down, her messages stay with us. No matter what she says, you listen."
Her motivational prowess extends beyond mere words. After England's thrilling Euro 2025 journey, marked by come-from-behind victories, Wiegman has shown a heightened sense of celebration. "She's dancing and singing now," midfielder Keira Walsh observes. "When she first came in, that wasn't as much a part of her. But she's one of the best managers I've played for because she makes everyone feel loved."
#### **The Dutch Touch: A Blend of Honesty and Passion**
Wiegman's leadership style has roots in her Dutch heritage, where directness and emotional intelligence coexist. Ellen White, a former England striker, described her as "a great communicator" who knows how to connect with individuals. "Being Dutch, she's good at being honest," White added. "She gives you a sense of belief, love, and passion. That's why everyone, as much as they wanted to win for the team, wanted to win for Sarina."
Her ability to maintain composure under pressure is equally notable. Defender Alex Greenwood highlights Wiegman's "range of personalities," describing her as both calm and empathetic. "She's a 'mum' to the team," says Greenwood. "And that's hard, especially when you have to make difficult decisions. But we know she has our backs."
#### **A Tactical Genius with Heart**
Beyond her emotional connection with players, Wiegman's tactical prowess is undeniable. She has instilled a resilience in her squad, often relying on substitutes to turn games around. Known as "finishers," these players bring a spark of energy when needed most. Her reliance on this strategy has been a hallmark of her success, particularly in Euro 2025, where England has rallied from conceding the first goal in both the quarter-final and semi-final.
Former Netherlands boss Andries Jonker, who managed Wiegman during her playing career, credits her organizational skills as a key attribute. "Organization is a signature of her teams," he says. Karen Bardsley, a former England goalkeeper, adds: "She's a pragmatist, and Lucy Bronze has had to evolve throughout her tenure."
The Pressure of History
With the Euro 2025 final set to take place at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, the pressure is palpable. England faces a Spain team that has emerged as a formidable opponent. The stakes are high, and Wiegman's ability to navigate intense scrutiny while keeping her team focused will be put to the test. As the Lionesses aim for a historic repeat victory, Wiegman's blend of empathy and tactical brilliance will be on full display.
#### **How to Follow the Match**
The Euro 2025 final between England and Spain will kick off at 17:00 BST on Sunday, July 27. Fans can follow the action live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, listen to BBC Radio 5 Live and 5 Sports Extra, and stay updated with live text coverage on the BBC Sport website and app. For those in the UK, the match will also be available on iPlayer.
A Final Thought
Sarina Wiegman's journey from PE teacher to one of the most respected figures in women's football is a testament to her unyielding dedication and unique leadership style. As England prepares to face Spain, it is not just a clash of nations but a celebration of Wiegman's unparalleled ability to inspire and win. If history is any guide, the Lionesses have a strong chance of adding another chapter to her remarkable legacy.
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment on this article!