Women’s EURO 2022: How Wiegman’s obvious changes saw England overcome a tactically dominant Spain – tactical analysis

The stage was set in Brighton on the South Coast as the Lionesses prepared to battle La Roja at the American Express Stadium.

While the nation basked in blissful, blistering and perilous heat, a fully COVID-recovered Sarina Wiegman led to her team out against a Spanish side much more climatised to the sweltering summer sun.

A place in the semi-finals was up for grabs. The tournament hosts had the nation behind them but were facing their sternest test so far. Spain had never won a knockout game in Women’s Euros history, but Wednesday was as good a day as any to break the curse. Interestingly, the last team that England failed to beat in any competition, and score against for that matter, were Spain.

Despite the absence of Alexia Putellas, who could do little but watch her teammates from the metaphorical side-lines, the quality on display was truly a joy to behold. And the game certainly didn’t disappoint.

It was England who came out on top with a 2-1 victory after extra-time, maintaining their perfect record throughout the competition to sail through to the semis, while Jorge Vilda’s side crashed out prematurely.

Having been 1-0 down for most of the game, superheroine Ella Toone saved the day in the 84^th minute, which was followed by a truly gorgeous strike from Georgia Stanway in the first half of extra-time to seal the nervy win.

This article will be a tactical analysis of the clash between two great minds on the touchline. This analysis will look at the tactics used by both head coaches which led to the end result.

Lineups and formations

After trouncing Northern Ireland 5-0 at the weekend and sending Kenny Shiels’ side packing, Wiegman saw no need to change the starting eleven or usual 4-2-3-1 formation. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!

Mary Earps was chosen by the Dutch coach between the sticks, protecting the backline behind a defensive four comprising of Lucy Bronze, Millie Bright, Leah Williamson and Rachel Daly.