England have retained the European championships after a dramatic penalty shoot-out victory against Spain.
England Women have successfully defended their European championship title following a thrilling penalty shoot-out victory over Spain.
The world champions took the lead after 25 minutes courtesy of Mariona Caldentey, but the Lionesses fought back and levelled the score when Alessia Russo headed in a cross from substitute Chloe Kelly, who had replaced the injured Lauren James, just before the hour mark.
Opportunities were scarce for both teams in the remaining 60 minutes, including extra-time, leading to a nail-biting penalty shoot-out. Beth Mead was first up and scored, but her strike from 12 yards was deemed a double-touch, necessitating a re-take which was saved.
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However, England’s fortunes improved as Spanish players failed to convert two of their first three penalties, thanks to goalkeeper Hannah Hampton’s heroics. Alex Greenwood and Niamh Charles both found the back of the net for England.
Despite Leah Williamson missing her shot, Salma Paraluello’s wide effort gave Kelly the opportunity to secure the win, which she duly did, reports the Manchester Evening News.
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Even before the trophy was hoisted aloft by the triumphant team, plans for celebrations were already underway. Gabby Logan disclosed on BBC that a victory parade would be held in central London on Tuesday, July 29.
Prior to the final, The Guardian reported that discussions among officials included a parade in central London, a visit to Downing Street, and potentially even a trip to Buckingham Palace.
And it has now been confirmed that an open-top bus procession is set to commence at 12.10pm along The Mall, culminating in a staged ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace around 12.30pm, hosted by Alex Scott.
The event is free for all to attend, featuring performances from the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, as well as live music from DJ CharStape. Following this, Sarina Wiegman and the Lionesses will take to the stage for a special European Championship winners trophy lift presentation.
The celebration will be broadcast live across BBC, ITV and Sky between 12pm noon and 1pm.
FA Chief Executive, Mark Bullingham, expressed: “Our history-making Lionesses are Champions of Europe for the second successive time, and have become the first England Senior team in history to win a tournament overseas. We are so proud of all of the players, Sarina and the support team who have all been part of this incredible achievement. They have all worked unbelievably hard and we know the nation shares our pride. The victory celebration in London on Tuesday will give England fans an opportunity to celebrate with the players, and be part of history. We’ve had amazing support from our fans both in Switzerland and at home throughout the tournament, and we look forward to celebrating together and creating some lifelong memories.”
Culture, Media and Sport Secretary, Lisa Nandy, expressed: “The Lionesses’ incredible win has done our country proud. Now, we have the chance to cheer these heroes home at their homecoming parade. The Lionesses didn’t just set out to win the tournament, they wanted to change society – and this government is rising to that challenge. Whether it is supporting girls and boys to pursue school sport, investing in grassroots facilities across the country or bidding for the 2035 Women’s World Cup, we are laying the foundations for a decade of change by breaking down the barriers to participation and inspiring the next generation of players.”
While a bank holiday doesn’t currently seem likely, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is being urged to grant the nation an extra day off work.
Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman Max Wilkinson stated: “The Lionesses can make history on Sunday and retain the Euros title they won so memorably three years ago.
“If they do that, the Prime Minister should give us a Public Holiday to honour their achievement. Retaining the title would be one of our country’s greatest sporting achievements.
“Fans and patriots across the country deserve the chance to celebrate the talent, success and historic achievement of this amazing team.
“A Bank Holiday would also give our hospitality industry a much-needed assist and boost. The Prime Minister is a football fan – we’ve all seen the pictures of him enjoying a kick around with his mates.”
‘If Wiegman’s heroes deliver glory, we’ll all be hoping he’ll put the ball into an empty net by giving the Lionesses and the rest of us a chance to mark the occasion.
“A Bank Holiday would also give our hospitality industry a much-needed assist and boost.”
