England’s Lionesses may not replicate their six consecutive wins from the last European Championship, but their commanding 4-0 victory over the Netherlands in Zurich stands as one of their most impressive performances under manager Sarina Wiegman. Following a disappointing 2-1 loss to France, Wiegman made strategic adjustments that paid off handsomely.
The match saw Ella Toone stepping in for Beth Mead and Lauren James moving to a right-wing position, providing a more effective balance in the midfield. James flourished in her new role, contributing significantly to the attack and scoring a stunning goal. Meanwhile, Jess Carter shifted from left-back to center-back, showcasing Wiegman’s emphasis on versatility in her squad. Despite initial frustrations about being labeled a utility player, Carter performed solidly in a position she prefers.
Alessia Russo, while missing some opportunities, benefitted from a well-placed cross from Greenwood, demonstrating the synergy within the team that Wiegman orchestrated. The choice of goalkeeper Hannah Hampton also proved fruitful, as her distribution skills shone through, particularly with a brilliant assist leading to England’s opening goal.
The Lionesses displayed resilience and adaptability, which has become characteristic of the team, especially after their European Championship win in 2022 and the World Cup semi-final success against Australia. The pressure they faced was immense, with the potential for public scrutiny looming over them after their previous defeat, yet they delivered with confidence.
Wiegman noted that the Netherlands presented a different challenge compared to France, but the performance in Zurich reflects the kind of balanced setup that many England fans had hoped for from the outset of the competition. Though they may not top their group, this strategy could very well serve them well in the knockout stages, potentially allowing them to avoid facing Spain until later in the tournament.
This recent win may turn out to be a crucial turning point for the Lionesses, galvanizing their momentum as they move forward in the tournament. The players demonstrated a strong sense of unity and purpose, and it is clear that their journey is far from over.