As England prepares to defend its UEFA Women’s Euro title, head coach Sarina Wiegman aims to minimise external distractions as they kick off their campaign in Switzerland. The team, fresh from a victorious Euro 2022 on home soil and a runner-up finish in the 2023 World Cup, is considered one of the tournament favourites despite recent player withdrawals involving key individuals.
England’s journey to the Euro 2025, commencing on Thursday at 2 am AEST, will be broadcasted live without interruptions on Stan Sport. In a country where passion for football is immense, the Lionesses are facing heightened expectations. Wiegman acknowledges the pre-tournament buzz but highlights that this increased attention stems from the game’s growing visibility rather than merely ‘noise’ to contend with.
The coach, who previously steered the Netherlands to Euro victory in 2017, is grappling with the recent exit of veteran players such as defender Millie Bright and goalkeeper Mary Earps, alongside midfielder Fran Kirby, who announced their retirements. Earps shared her distress over the backlash following her decision, indicating that it was challenging not just for her but also for her loved ones.
With Bright’s withdrawal due to her unpreparedness, the roster has shifted towards a blend of experience and youth. Although England retains 13 players from the 2022 squad, the group also includes seven who are set to make their tournament debuts. Wiegman is optimistic about balancing seasoned players with enthusiastic newcomers.
The Lionesses encountered mixed results leading up to the tournament, including a recent Nations League performance with two losses and one win, casting uncertainty over their defence of the title. They will open their group stage against France, followed by matches against the Netherlands and Wales.
Against a backdrop of over 600,000 ticket sales expected across eight venues, UEFA is enthusiastic about engaging a broader global audience, with a significant percentage of tickets already sold to travelling fans, including a notable number from the United States and neighbouring Germany. UEFA official Nadine Kessler emphasized the importance of reaching a wider fan base for women’s football.
As the tournament unfolds, Wiegman emphasises the inevitability of doubts prior to competition, reiterating that unpredictability is part of the game’s charm. The Lionesses are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting and challenging tournament.