The England women’s team made more history with victory in the Euro 2025 final even after falling behind and losing one of the team’s key players to injury in the first half
England have won consecutive European titles after the Lionesses edged out Spain in a tense Euro 2025 final on penalties to retain the crown they clinched three years ago.
Sarina Wiegman‘s side headed into the tournament in Switzerland as one of the favourites. And they lived up to their billing by making it all the way to Sunday’s showpiece final, where they avenged their defeat in the 2023 World Cup to Spain by beating the world champions 3-1 on penalties.
Chloe Kelly – England’s matchwinner in the Euro 2022 final – plundered the decisive penalty after being introduced from the bench just before half-time as a substitute for the struggling Lauren James.
But Wiegman’s decision to start James, who was plagued by an ankle injury, on the left-hand flank was deemed a “massive risk” by Ian Wright, working the match as a pundit for ITV.
“Massive risk,” Wright said while analysing James’ selection pre-match. “I think she’s [Wiegman] wasted a sub there.
READ MORE: Lionesses Celebrations LIVE: England win Euro 2025 with penalty shootout victory over SpainREAD MORE: Lucy Bronze reveals she played Euro 2025 with BROKEN LEG after England win final
“She’s obviously not right and not only that, she’s put her on the other side. I said she should have been in the centre, not on the left side! Having to chase back Ona Batlle and chase back Aitana Bonmati when you’re half fit. I think that’s a massive mistake.”
While Wright was ultimately proved right with James having to be withdrawn shortly before the break, he needn’t have worried about the England gameplan.
Kelly has shone in her role as a super-sub for England throughout the tournament and her introduction from the bench was once again the catalyst for another famous night for the Lionesses.
It was her cross from the left which was guided home by the head of Alessia Russo to force extra-time. And the 27-year-old Arsenal attacker was the coolest person in Switzerland when she stepped up to dispatch her winning spot-kick.
Kelly was singled out post-match by Wiegman, who commended her for showing the character to get back to her best after a challenging period.
She said of Kelly: “Every player has their own story. Every story is incredible. Her story is out in the open and I’m so happy for her. She has been fighting to come back to her highest level. She really wanted to take that penalty. To be able to score it under that pressure is incredible.”
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
