Olivia Clark’s Insight: The Kickoff of the Nations League Prepares Europe for Euro 2025
Image source: BBC Sport
Published 7 hours ago
Uefa Womens Nations League: Italy v Wales
- Venue: Brianteo Stadium, Monza
- Date: Friday, 21 February
- Kick-off: 17:15 GMT
- Coverage: Live on BBC Two Wales, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru, the BBC Sport website and app, plus live text commentary. Highlights available on S4C and iPlayer at 21:50 GMT.
Looking back in my career today presents a stark contrast compared to where I was last time I wrote this column when Wales were just dreaming of qualifying for their first major tournament through the play-offs against the Republic of Ireland. That dream has since come true as we prepare for what promises to be an historic year with Euro 2025 on our horizon.
Were preparing perfectly for those Euros, about to embark on a Nations League campaign that will undoubtedly test us immensely. The times are also different regarding my club career; Ive recently returned to the Womens Super League at Leicester City from FC Twentea move that came as a surprise only a few months ago.
Lots of ground has been covered! Wales have called up two injured players, Hughes and Morgan for their upcoming Nations League game. Meanwhile, Wilkinson highlighted how women’s football in Wales is culturally behind compared to some other nations. And back then with the Republic of Ireland play-offs, those memories will last a lifetime.
Things didnt start out as planned when we drew 1-1 against the Republic of Ireland in Cardiff before an all-time high crowd and narrowly missed a chance for victory. Despite that setback, our focus remained strong heading to Dublin where we had full belief in ourselves. The outcome? A resounding success with celebrations to remember.
The final whistle at Dublin was emotional; I needed some time to process the moment as it brought all my experiences of becoming a professional footballer into sharp focusproof that every step is worth it. Its still one of the best nights in our lives, and seeing my dad there made everything even more special.
The eight minutes of injury time were nerve-wracking but ultimately exhilarating being on the pitch; the sense of zoning out is unparalleled. Despite its intensity for viewers at home, I think it was worse for them. A TikTok post about that moment shows just how powerful those memories arethough there are restrictions with displaying such content.
Our preparation in this Nations League will serve as perfect training for Euro 2025; were drawn into a tough group but feel confident based on our experience and the potential of what we can achieve. The Nations League also offers us opportunities to experiment and get closer to qualifying for Switzerland in the summer.
My decision to move back to Leicester was an easy one after considering my options at FC Twente last season; I wanted a place that would be perfect both professionally and personally. Its top-notch there with facilities among the best in the WSL, and working under goalkeeper coach Tom Pressman feels ideal.
I had no regrets about moving to Twente for their Champions League experience and personal growth learning abroad. While I didnt plan on coming back quickly, Leicester is a wonderful opportunity where Im keeping my Dutch up with Duolingo among other adjustments as the situation requires.
