Beth Mead Explains How Lionesses Forged ‘Proper England Attitude’ in Pursuit of Back-to-Back European Crowns

Vulnerability, Trust and Sarina Wiegman’s Influence Are Driving England’s Title Defence at the Euros

In the world of elite sport, where pressure is relentless and the margins between triumph and heartbreak razor-thin, what really separates the good teams from the great? According to England forward Beth Mead, it’s something deeper than tactics, fitness drills, or individual brilliance. It’s about vulnerability. It’s about trust. And above all, it’s about a shared attitude—what she calls a “proper England attitude.”

As the Lionesses chase a second consecutive European Championship title, Mead gave an honest, heartfelt interview to the BBC, lifting the curtain on the emotional and psychological foundations that have helped this team weather tough challenges—and come out stronger.

Finding Strength in Vulnerability

“It might sound odd to people on the outside,” Mead admitted. “But being vulnerable with each other has become one of our biggest strengths. Not just players, but Sarina [Wiegman] and the staff too. We’ve all opened up, shared things we maybe wouldn’t have shared in other environments. And that’s created this deep trust that runs through the squad.”

In many ways, Mead’s words give us a rare look at the emotional architecture behind England’s recent performances. This is a team that went into the tournament carrying the weight of expectation. Not only are they the reigning champions, but they’ve become symbols of what’s possible for women’s football in the UK and beyond.

Yet it hasn’t all been smooth sailing.

England started the tournament with a sobering 2-1 loss to France in the group stage. The result was a sharp reminder that no team, no matter how decorated, is immune to adversity. But where past England sides may have faltered or lost momentum, this group responded with grit—and heart.

Comebacks Built on Character

Beth Mead England Women 2025

Their quarter-final against Sweden said it all. Down 2-0 with 15 minutes to go, the Lionesses looked to be on the ropes. But then came the turnaround. Two quick goals in the final quarter of an hour pushed the match into extra time. And when it came down to penalties, the composure was unshakable. England converted all their spot kicks and punched their ticket to the semi-finals.

“That wasn’t just about skill,” Mead reflected. “That was about belief. About not letting go. It’s a mentality we’ve built over time.”

Sarina Wiegman: More Than a Coach

A major force behind this transformation has been manager Sarina Wiegman. Since taking over in 2021, Wiegman has brought more than just a tactical vision. She’s brought a human touch—something Mead believes has changed everything.

“Sarina has made herself vulnerable with us. That’s not something you see every day in football. She shares, she listens, and she genuinely cares about what’s going on with us, both on and off the pitch,” said Mead. “Knowing she has our back makes it easier for us to have hers. And that shows in how we fight for each other out there.”

Wiegman’s leadership style has become a blueprint for what modern coaching can look like—especially in a women’s game that’s still evolving in terms of infrastructure and support. By fostering emotional intelligence and encouraging open dialogue, she’s cultivated a culture of accountability without fear.

The Evolution of Beth Mead’s Role

For Mead herself, the tournament has presented a different kind of challenge. Once a nailed-on starter and top scorer during the last Euros, she’s now embraced more of a super-sub role—coming off the bench to change the tempo and stretch defences.

“It’s different, yeah,” she admitted. “You always want to start, obviously. But I understand my role in the squad right now. I trust Sarina’s decisions, and I know I can still make an impact when I’m called on.”

That impact could be crucial as England prepare to face Italy in the semi-finals on Tuesday, July 22. With a place in the final against either Germany or Spain on the line, every ounce of experience, composure and character will be needed.

Building a Legacy Beyond Trophies

Beth Mead England 2025

This Lionesses squad is already historic. Winning the 2022 Euros on home soil ignited a wave of support for women’s football in the UK, shifting the landscape in a way that’s still being felt in schools, grassroots programs, and professional clubs.

But for Mead and her teammates, legacy isn’t just about lifting silverware. It’s about what they stand for—and how they carry themselves through highs and lows.

“In the past, I think teams I’ve been part of might’ve struggled more in those tough moments,” she said. “But this group? We lean on each other. We don’t point fingers. We ask, ‘How can I help you?’ That’s what Sarina’s helped build. And that’s what we mean when we talk about the proper England attitude.”

It’s a powerful concept—one that goes beyond football. The idea that vulnerability can lead to strength, that trust can outlast setbacks, and that unity can elevate a team from good to great. It’s a reminder that behind every highlight reel and dramatic goal lies a story of human connection.

Eyes on the Prize

Now, with just two matches standing between them and back-to-back European crowns, the Lionesses are entering the home stretch of what’s already been a rollercoaster summer. Italy will pose a unique threat in the semis, with their physicality and defensive organisation. But England’s recent track record suggests they’ll be ready—mentally, tactically, and emotionally.

“We’ve had our ups and downs, but we’re still standing,” Mead smiled. “And I think that says a lot.”

The journey is far from over. But whatever happens next, one thing’s clear: this England squad has built something special—something that goes far beyond a game of football.