World-class coaches Sundhage and Wiegman ready to make history at Women's Finalissima

On Thursday 6 April, England and Brazil will go head-to-head in the first-ever Women's Finalissima at Wembley Stadium. The sold-out match is a testament to the impressive growth of women's football in both Europe and South America, and both teams are expected to put on a fantastic show for the fans.

Brazil’s head coach, Pia Sundhage, anticipates a tough match against England. "It is a big occasion and certainly a game where we will be challenged. Hopefully we can entertain, bring good energy to the match and play our part in helping everyone have a memorable evening,” says the Swede.

"Wembley is one of my favourite stadiums and to play here is always special. It is historically one of the greatest stadiums in world football and everyone grows up dreaming of Wembley. It is an unforgettable venue, and we are looking forward to having the opportunity to go out and create history with Brazil tonight."

A tribute to the growth of the women's game

Sarina Wiegman celebrates after their sides victory following the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 final match between England and Germany at Wembley Stadium on July 31, 2022 in London, UEFA via Getty Images

England's head coach Sarina Wiegman speaks about the significance of the match and the development of women's football in the country.

"Nights like tonight really highlight the incredible growth of women's football in this country, but it hasn't happened overnight,” she says. “There have been great foundations in place and the EURO win has helped accelerate that growth in all parts of the game."

Wiegman also praises her team for their commitment to promoting equal access to sport in schools. Elite players play a crucial role in inspiring girls to take on football and in driving grassroots participation, a key priority of UEFA’s women’s football strategy “Time for Action”.

"The players have helped address the really important issue of equal access to football and school sport for girls. As a former PE teacher, I know what impact sport can have on a young person's development and how it can influence the path they take,” she explains. “The players have used their collective voice to make an important change to society, and I am so proud of them all."

Two teams, two styles of play

Brazil's Ary Borges (R) celebrates with Brazil's Swedish coach Pia Sundhage after scoring a goal against Venezuela during their Conmebol 2022 women's Copa America football tournament match at the Centenario stadium in Armenia, Colombia, on July 18, 2022. AFP via Getty Images

Both coaches acknowledge the importance of facing different styles of play and philosophies in the lead up to the forthcoming FIFA World Cup.

"Brazil are a team who will play in a different style to what we have been used to. They are dynamic, have speed and have good touches on the ball," Wiegman assesses.

"In the build-up to the World Cup, you want to face as many teams as possible with different styles of play and philosophies because it means you are more prepared heading into the tournament."

Sundhage anticipates a close game, with all the attributes of a major final. “Playing in the Finalissima really matters, because this is a specific moment where we have to deal with all the emotions and the pressures. It's a privilege to play and coach under pressure and you have to deal with it and enjoy it.

“If you look at how England have been scoring goals, they’re especially good in the air. Their speed of play is also impressive, so we know it’s going to be tough. Every 50/50 battle is something we will need to deal with. But everything we experience tonight will be invaluable for us when it comes to the World Cup. You can't beat this kind of experience. It’s the best lesson ever.”

For now though, there is only one trophy on everybody’s mind. Excitement is in the air as the world watches on, waiting to see history unfold at the inaugural Women's Finalissima.