Published: 28th July 2025 | The English Chronicle Online
England’s Lionesses carved their names even deeper into the annals of footballing greatness with a dramatic and emotionally charged penalty shootout victory over Spain in the final of Euro 2025, retaining their European title and cementing their status as the continent’s undisputed champions.
In a night of high drama and historic achievement, it was once again Chloe Kelly—England’s modern-day icon—who rose to the moment, delivering the decisive spot-kick after Spain had faltered with three consecutive missed penalties. Kelly, who had already etched herself into the national consciousness with her winning strike at Wembley in 2022, calmly converted from the spot before racing toward the jubilant England supporters, this time holding her shirt tight as her teammates swarmed in euphoric celebration.
This victory marks a watershed moment in English football, representing the first time any senior England team has won a major tournament on foreign soil. It also further elevates manager Sarina Wiegman to legendary status in the sport, as she secured her third successive European title—two with the Netherlands and now back-to-back with England—demonstrating a managerial genius that has redefined the women’s game.
England’s path to glory was neither smooth nor predictable. They had come into the tournament under a cloud of inconsistency, having lost their opener to France and often appearing a shadow of the commanding side that triumphed in 2022. But where others saw vulnerability, the Lionesses drew strength. They overcame a two-goal deficit to defeat Sweden on penalties, snatched a last-minute winner in extra time against Italy in the semi-final, and now completed the ultimate comeback after trailing again at the halfway mark of the final.
Mariona Caldentey had given Spain a deserved first-half lead with a pinpoint header, capitalising on England’s frailty in midfield and a risky gamble by Wiegman to start Lauren James, who had struggled for fitness in the build-up. But Wiegman, ever the tactician, made the right calls when they mattered. James was withdrawn for Chloe Kelly, and with that change, England found a new rhythm. Kelly’s swirling cross met the head of Alessia Russo, who guided the ball past Cata Coll to equalise and shift the momentum.
From that point on, England’s resilience shone. Hannah Hampton, exceptional between the posts, made a string of critical saves—none more important than her two in the shootout—and the defence, marshalled by the returning Jess Carter, held firm against Spain’s technically gifted attackers. Carter, back in the starting eleven after enduring racial abuse earlier in the tournament, responded with composure and class.
On the flanks, Lauren Hemp was tireless and fearless. Her pace, precision, and pressing repeatedly unsettled Spain’s back line, and even deep into extra time she was bursting past defenders and launching England forward. It was this combination of physical grit and mental fortitude that made the Lionesses so formidable, and ultimately indomitable.
Spain, for their part, had come into the final unbeaten, confident, and in form. They were the favourites on paper, with memories of their 2023 World Cup triumph still fresh. But just as they seemed poised to extend their era of dominance, they were stopped in their tracks by an England side who refused to be outdone in spirit or execution. It is the second time England have denied them a major European crown, reaffirming their dominance on the continental stage.
This England team broke records as well as hearts. No side had ever won a single-legged Euros final after trailing at half-time until now. They also became the first team in tournament history to reach extra time in three separate knockout matches and emerged victorious each time. Ten of their goals came via substitutes—another unprecedented feat—showcasing not only the depth of the squad but also the razor-sharp decision-making from the touchline.
Sarina Wiegman, hailed once again for her calm leadership and clarity under pressure, now turns her attention to the 2027 World Cup, with her contract running until that competition. The celebrations may begin now, but the ambition, unmistakably, continues.
Back home, preparations are already underway for a public celebration in London, where fans are expected to turn out in droves to welcome back the champions. England’s journey in Euro 2025 has been a narrative of struggle, redemption, and ultimate triumph—one that transcends football and captures the imagination of a nation still basking in the afterglow of glory.
Spain, though disappointed, will now turn their focus to Brazil and the upcoming 2026 World Cup, determined to defend their global title and learn from the sting of this final defeat. For now, however, it is England’s moment, and it belongs to a team that refused to be beaten—physically outmatched at times, perhaps, but never mentally undone.
The English Chronicle Online
