England manager Sarina Wiegman has stressed the magnitude of the task facing her side as they prepare for their final Euro 2025 qualifier against Sweden on Tuesday. The Lionesses need at least a draw in Gothenburg to secure automatic qualification for next summer's tournament in Switzerland, avoiding a more complicated play-off route.
Wiegman described the encounter as a 'massive challenge' but welcomed the opportunity to test themselves at the highest level. 'You have to be at your top level every day,' she said. 'When you make mistakes, you will be punished – and that's exactly what you want.' Her comments came after England's 2-1 win over the Republic of Ireland on Friday, moved them closer to booking their place.
England took the lead inside five minutes through Alessia Russo, who finished a fine move involving Beth Mead. Wiegman praised the goal but admitted she wanted more from the first half, suggesting players may have been over-cautious in training. 'If you have the opportunity to shoot, please shoot,' she told them at half-time.
The win was sealed by Georgia Stanway's penalty after Lauren Hemp was fouled. However, the Lionesses failed to keep a clean sheet as substitute Julie-Ann Russell scored in added time. Wiegman also explained her decision to start Hannah Hampton in goal, citing increased competition with Mary Earps for the number one spot.
The match saw debuts for Jessica Naz and Aggie Beever-Jones. Republic of Ireland boss Eileen Gleeson praised her side's resilience, noting the late goal could prove vital for seeding in the play-offs. 'The work rate right to the end was really commendable,' she said.
