SYDNEY: In the realm of women’s football, England’s ascent to dominance was once a distant dream. But under the watchful guidance of Sarina Wiegman, that dream is fast becoming a reality. The Dutch coach has not only rewritten history but has also etched her name as a maestro in the realm of football strategists.
Prior to Wiegman’s tenure, the concept of a major women’s football trophy seemed elusive for England. The nation, known for its football fervour, had seen its men’s team bask in glory, while the women’s squad yearned for their moment in the limelight. This narrative saw a dramatic shift when Wiegman assumed the reins of the Lionesses. In her three years at the helm, she has not only led the team to European triumph but has also steered them on a remarkable trajectory towards a potential second major title within a year.
Currently, Wiegman’s European champions are on the precipice of glory once again as they face co-hosts Australia in the Women’s World Cup semi-finals. The coveted prize is a coveted spot in the final, where they will encounter the winner of the duel between Sweden and Spain. England’s squad boasts a wealth of talent, but it’s perhaps the presence of the 53-year-old Dutch tactician on the sidelines that truly sets them apart.
Wiegman’s appointment as the successor to Phil Neville proved to be a masterstroke. Three years ago, the English Football Association aptly described her as “steely and a winner.” This description has proven prophetic, as Wiegman’s strategic brilliance led England to European glory on their home soil. And now, with a World Cup final tantalizingly close, her coaching acumen could propel England to unprecedented heights.
Behind her seemingly unflappable exterior lies a coach who commands the complete trust and respect of her players. Wiegman’s demeanour exudes both calm and directness, qualities that resonate deeply with her squad. Midfielder Georgia Stanway revealed how Wiegman fostered a sense of family at the World Cup, allowing the players to flourish while also finding moments of relaxation. This inclusive approach extended to allowing players’ families to be with them, bucking the trend of isolating the team.
But even for her players, Wiegman remains an enigmatic figure. Stanway’s lighthearted remark, “We’ve all got families out here – even Sarina,” underscores the sense of awe that surrounds their coach. This perception that she is almost larger than life is evident when Stanway struggles to explain that even their head coach, Sarina, has her own family and life outside of the pitch. This sentiment, while humorous, speaks volumes about the revered stature Wiegman holds.
The ascendancy of the Women’s Super League and the growing popularity of the game in England have presented Wiegman with a treasure trove of talent to choose from. Even prior to her European triumph, Wiegman’s influence was keenly felt, bridging the gap between previous Lionesses squads and the current dynamic team. Her journey to prominence included guiding the Netherlands to a European title in 2017, followed by replicating the feat with England.
The pinnacle of her achievements is marked by guiding the Netherlands to the final of the 2019 World Cup, where they succumbed to a formidable United States team. The anticipation that surrounded Wiegman’s transition to England was palpable. It was a wait that extended over a year, as her commitments with the Dutch team during the Tokyo Olympics delayed her official charge. However, the wait proved to be a wise investment, as England’s record under her leadership reflects only one defeat.
That lone defeat, a 2-0 loss to Australia, carries an interesting twist. It snapped England’s 30-game unbeaten run, yet its significance lies in highlighting the team’s growth under Wiegman’s guidance. Her unflinching success has solidified her as a beacon for women coaches, although she has expressed a tinge of disappointment in being the only woman coach left in the World Cup after the last 16 results.
England’s journey to the semi-finals has not been without its challenges. The Lionesses found themselves in a precarious position against Nigeria, narrowly advancing through penalties. Additionally, the absence of key players like skipper Leah Williamson and star striker Beth Mead, both sidelined due to knee injuries, has showcased Wiegman’s ability to rally her squad even in adversity.
Wiegman’s journey from a young girl who cropped her hair to play football alongside her twin brother to becoming the first Dutch player to earn 100 international caps encapsulates her indomitable spirit. When asked about her football journey on the eve of a crucial quarter-final, her response mirrored her focus on the game at hand rather than dwelling on her past accomplishments.
