England aims to improve after recent losses as they face the USA at Wembley.
The outcome of the match will depend on whether Wiegman’s team has learned from their mistakes. Germany took advantage of England’s weaknesses, leading to a 4-3 defeat that should serve as a wake-up call. If England continues to play carelessly, they will struggle to defend their European Championship title next summer in Switzerland. With upcoming matches against the USA and Spain, England needs to win a high-stakes game and show they can play smartly.
After the loss to Germany, Wiegman’s choices for the team were under scrutiny. Injuries may limit England’s options as they prepare for their last camp of the year. Lauren Hemp and Ella Toone are now out, joining Lauren James on the sidelines. The USA also faces challenges, missing key players who helped them win Olympic gold in Paris. This could be a relief for England, but it also means they need to step up.
The Lionesses want to challenge themselves against the best teams. The absence of Smith, Swanson, and Rodman could help England, but it also means they must be careful. The defense struggled against Germany, and Wiegman believes the issues go beyond just the backline. She noted that England and Germany seemed equal on paper, but Germany was better at taking advantage of key moments in the game.
As England prepares to face the USA and Spain, they need to learn from their mistakes. Germany was quick to exploit England’s errors, and the Lionesses must improve their play both with and without the ball. Wiegman took an aggressive approach against Germany, but the team needs to choose their moments wisely. Poor decisions can create problems, allowing opponents to break through.
Understanding when to press and when to hold back will be crucial for England. They need to identify moments when the USA might lose the ball under pressure. Sometimes, England jumps into action too soon, which can lead to counter-attacks. Wiegman adjusted the team’s shape during the game against Germany, showing the need for tactical discipline.
Grace Clinton has a chance to prove herself for the Euros by pressing alongside Alessia Russo. The partnership between Stanway and Walsh has been effective, but maintaining their shape is essential for success. Both players are among the best in Europe, and their teamwork can make a difference.
Bright and Williamson, while experienced, have faced challenges as a defensive pair. They play different roles for their clubs, which complicates their partnership for England. Wiegman has considered switching their positions, but it hasn’t happened yet. Meanwhile, Alex Greenwood, a left-footed defender, remains out of the team, even though she could provide a better option under pressure.
In the match against Germany, Williamson struggled when receiving the ball on the left side, leading to goals against her team. England has a clear point of weakness when she is forced to play on her left foot. Although she can be a strong defender, her best work comes when she plays on her right foot. The mistakes that cost England could have been avoided.
Against Germany, the pressure eased when Walsh dropped back between the center-backs. Since the Euros, teams have been able to shut down England by marking Walsh. Wiegman needs a more proactive plan to keep Walsh involved in the game. Hayes will likely have a strategy in mind, focusing on structure over pressing. For the Lionesses, decision-making will be crucial against the USA, and this includes Wiegman’s tactical choices as well.
Image Credit: www.yahoo.com