Women’s World Cup: Sarina Wiegman bravery gives Lionesses new weapon, says Rachel Daly | OneFootball

R

achel Daly says Sarina Wiegman showed she can still deliver on the big occasions after her tactical masterclass helped the Lionesses stroll into the knockout stage of the World Cup.

The head coach sprung a surprise when she switched to a new 3-4-1-2 formation against China yesterday, with the change to a back three proving a masterstroke.

Lauren James starred as England ran out easy 6-1 winners to top Group D with three wins from three and seal a last-16 meeting with Nigeria on Monday.

"She [Wiegman] showed she can deliver again on the big stage and have the bravery to make decisions like she did," said Daly.

"Sarina always says we are adaptable and that's what we showed. I think that is what tournament football is all about.

"We have got that in our locker now. We know that we can do that system, and keep growing and working on that.

"We obviously can revert back to type with a 4-3-3. It's another weapon in the armoury. It was a great, complete performance from the team."

England switched system after losing star midfielder Keira Walsh to a knee injury on Friday.

Walsh is still in Australia at the team base and it is unclear if she will play again at this World Cup.As part of the new formation, Daly played left wing-back for the first time in her career.

The versatile 31-year-old was named in the squad as a forward and is happy to fill any role if it means she is on the pitch.

"I will play anywhere for England, I can't say it enough," said Daly (below). "It's all about learning and growing into different positions.

"That's another one to add to my belt. It's just again about whatever I can do for the team to help get the win and support the girls."

England will be strong favourites against Nigeria in Brisbane, but Daly has warned against complacency given the Super Falcons are unbeaten so far and stunned co-hosts Australia in Group B.

"They have been brilliant this tournament," Daly said. "I think what you have seen is that they are a very athletic side. They are a brilliant side and have done really, really well."

There have already been plenty of shocks at this World Cup, with two-time reigning champions USA failing to top their group yesterday after being held to a draw by Portugal.

Last year's Euro 2022 finalists Germany were also stunned by Colombia last week, meaning England are likely to avoid them in the quarter-finals.

Lionesses captain Millie Bright believes the surprise results show how open this World Cup is and she will not allow her team-mates to get complacent.

"This tournament is going to be one of the tightest tournaments," she said. "For me, it's anyone's for the taking.