England women's football manager Sarina Wiegman has made a passionate plea to supporters, urging them to pack Wembley Stadium for the Lionesses' upcoming UEFA Women's Nations League fixture against the Republic of Ireland. The match, scheduled for Saturday, presents a critical opportunity for England to bounce back after their recent defeat to the Netherlands.
Wembley Roar Needed for Lionesses
Wiegman emphasised the importance of home support, stating: "We need that energy from the stands. When Wembley is full and the fans are behind us, it gives the players an incredible boost." The Dutch coach, who led England to European glory in 2022, knows the value of a vibrant atmosphere in high-stakes matches.
Mead's Return Bolsters England
The England squad receives a significant boost with the return of Arsenal forward Beth Mead, who missed the previous international break. Wiegman confirmed: "Beth is back in the squad and looking sharp. Her experience and goal-scoring ability will be crucial." Mead's presence adds firepower to an attack that struggled against the Dutch defence.
Nations League Implications
This fixture carries extra significance as England aim to:
- Maintain their position at the top of Group A1
- Stay on course for Olympic qualification
- Build momentum ahead of upcoming fixtures
The Republic of Ireland, managed by interim boss Eileen Gleeson, will be no pushovers after their impressive victory over Albania. Wiegman warned: "We've analysed them thoroughly. They're organised, physical, and will make this difficult."
Tickets remain available for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at the national stadium. The Football Association hopes to see a crowd exceeding 70,000, potentially setting a new attendance record for a women's international at Wembley.
