Published: 28 July’ 2025 | The English Chronicle Desk | The English Chronicle Online
England is basking in the glow of a historic sporting triumph as the Lionesses secured back-to-back UEFA Women’s European Championship titles, defeating Spain in a heart-stopping final that has reignited national pride and stirred calls for a celebratory bank holiday. The sensational win, sealed through a dramatic penalty shootout, has captured the imagination of millions across the UK and beyond.
In front of a roaring crowd at St Jakob-Park in Basel, the final was a pulsating affair. Spain drew first blood early in the game, but England’s Alessia Russo restored parity with a composed finish in the 57th minute. Despite intense pressure and several close attempts from both sides, extra time saw neither team able to find the winning goal, setting the stage for a nerve-wracking penalty shootout.
Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton proved to be England’s heroine, delivering two game-changing saves before Chloe Kelly calmly slotted home the decisive penalty, clinching a 3-1 shootout victory. The result sparked euphoric celebrations nationwide, with supporters flooding pubs, homes, and city streets, celebrating not only the win but the spirit and resilience of Sarina Wiegman’s squad.
An open-top bus parade is set to honour the champions in London on Tuesday, making its way down The Mall and culminating at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace. Fans are encouraged to join the festivities, which will be broadcast live on Sky News from 11am. In the meantime, a special reception at Downing Street will be held later today to honour the players, coaching staff, and FA officials.
The triumph has prompted a chorus of calls for the government to declare an additional bank holiday. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey described it as a “fitting tribute” to what he called a “stunning achievement.” However, with Treasury estimates indicating that a bank holiday could cost the UK economy approximately £2.4 billion, it appears unlikely that Downing Street will grant the request.
Still, the celebration is not confined to policy discussions. Political leaders, royals, and celebrities alike have expressed their admiration for the team. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised the squad, stating, “You dug deep when it mattered most and you’ve made the nation proud. History makers.” The Royal Family joined in the chorus of praise. Prince William and Princess Charlotte, who were present at the final, shared their heartfelt congratulations, saying, “Lionesses, you are the champions of Europe and we couldn’t be prouder.”
King Charles also extended his “most heartfelt congratulations” via the Royal Family’s official X account, lauding the team’s perseverance and inspiring performance. “Through sporting skill and awesome teamwork,” he wrote, “the Lionesses have made those famous words — ‘football’s coming home’ — ring true once again.” He further encouraged the team by issuing a royal challenge: to bring home the World Cup in 2027.
Among the players, young forward Michelle Agyemang was named Young Player of the Tournament. The 19-year-old, who only had one senior cap before the competition, made an indelible mark with critical equalisers in the quarter-final and semi-final, cementing her status as one of England’s rising stars.
For head coach Sarina Wiegman, the victory marks her third UEFA Women’s Euros title—once with her native Netherlands and now twice with England. Speaking at a post-match press conference, she described the tournament as the most “chaotic” and “ridiculous” she’s experienced, but expressed her joy and relief with her trademark composure and humour. “I’ll do some more dancing,” she smiled, “and I’ll have a drink, but not as much as the players.”
Tower Bridge was illuminated in red and white as fans danced late into the night. For now, football is well and truly home, and the Lionesses have once again written their names in golden letters across the annals of sporting history.
