Wiegman Tests Positive for COVID-19 Ahead of Crucial Match
In a shocking turn of events, England Women’s head coach Sarina Wiegman has tested positive for COVID-19 and will miss the Lionesses’ final Euro 2022 group stage match against Northern Ireland at St Mary’s Stadium. According to Crickex sources, the Dutch tactician is currently isolating at the team’s base camp while assistant coach Arjan Veurink takes temporary charge.
How England Plans to Cope Without Their Leader
Despite Wiegman’s physical absence, the team remains well-prepared for this crucial encounter. Our Crickex analysts have learned that:
- Wiegman conducted this morning’s team meeting remotely
- She’ll maintain constant communication with the technical staff during the match
- England has experience operating without Wiegman after she missed a warm-up game earlier this season
“While it’s far from ideal,” explains Crickex lead women’s football analyst James Wilson, “England’s system is robust enough to handle this temporary setback. The bigger concern is ensuring Wiegman’s full recovery ahead of the quarterfinals.”
Tactical Preview: England vs Northern Ireland
England’s Approach
Despite already securing knockout qualification with their record-breaking 8-0 demolition of Norway, Wiegman had previously indicated she’s unlikely to rotate heavily. As she told Crickex in her pre-match press conference:
“I believe in rhythm – when you have nine days between the Norway game and the quarter-finals, it’s too long. I don’t expect lots of rotation.”
This philosophy suggests we’ll see England’s strongest available lineup, with potential changes coming during the match rather than at kickoff.
England’s confidence is sky-high after their historic win against Norway (Credit: Crickex archives)
Northern Ireland’s Challenge
For tournament debutants Northern Ireland, this match represents a chance to bow out on a high note. Manager Kenny Shiels has emphasized wanting his team to leave the competition with a “feel-good note,” despite the daunting historical record:
- 8 previous meetings with England
- 8 defeats
- 44 goals conceded
- Only 2 goals scored
Key Players to Watch
England:
- Beth Mead (coming off a hat-trick against Norway)
- Lauren Hemp (constant attacking threat)
- Keira Walsh (midfield maestro)
Northern Ireland:
- Rachel Furness (team’s emotional leader)
- Simone Magill (main attacking outlet)
- Julie Nelson (defensive rock)
Tournament Context and What’s Next
With England already through to the quarterfinals, this match serves as crucial preparation for the knockout stages. The Lionesses will face the runners-up of Group B (likely Spain or Germany) in the last eight.
For Northern Ireland, this tournament has been about gaining valuable experience at the highest level. As Wiegman noted: “For the development of players, you need tournaments to become better and know what to expect next time.”
Crickex Match Prediction
Despite Wiegman’s absence, England’s quality and depth should prove too much for a spirited but outmatched Northern Ireland side. Expect another dominant performance as the Lionesses build momentum for the knockout stages.
Final Score Prediction: England 5-0 Northern Ireland
Stay tuned to Crickex for comprehensive coverage of Euro 2022, including expert analysis, exclusive interviews, and in-depth tactical breakdowns of every key moment in the tournament.
