By Simone Hughes (Basel, Switzerland)
History was made in Basel as England’s Lionesses defied the odds to secure their second UEFA Women’s European Championship in three years, triumphing over reigning world champions Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout.
From the moment Alessia Russo’s towering header equalised in the second half, it was clear this team wasn’t ready to relinquish their crown. What followed was a nail-biting 120 minutes of heart-pounding football, culminating in a nerve-shredding shootout that saw Chloe Kelly once again write her name into English football folklore.
Watched proudly by the Prince of Wales and his daughter, Princess Charlotte, donning straightened hair in tribute to captain Leah Williamson, the victory was a celebration of resilience, teamwork, and belief. For soccer mums, proud dads, young girls dreaming big, and anyone with a Three Lions shirt, this was more than a match. It was a moment of national pride.
The stakes were enormous. Spain, favourites going into the final, had already won both the women’s and men’s tournaments – a feat England now moves one step closer to matching. But the Lionesses weren’t fazed. They brought intensity, determination, and heart to every challenge, echoing the grit that powered their 2022 Wembley victory over Germany.
When the full-time whistle blew and penalties loomed, the nation held its breath. Memories of missed chances and shootout heartbreak haunted fans. But goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, stepping into the spotlight after Mary Earps’ early retirement, proved an impenetrable force. Her two saves were monumental.
Then came the moment: Chloe Kelly stepped up and, with steely calm, delivered the winning penalty. The ball hit the net. England had done it – again.
As cheers erupted from Croydon BoxPark to living rooms across the country, the Lionesses proved they are not just champions on the pitch but icons of hope and empowerment. From Michelle Agyemang’s spirited performance to Williamson’s fearless leadership, every player wore the badge with pride.
“This is for every girl who was told she couldn’t,” said Kelly, post-match. “We believed. And now look.”
With this unforgettable win, England’s women have cemented their legacy – not just as Europe’s best, but as a team that’s transformed the future of the beautiful game.
