4 weeks ago
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The England Lionesses cemented their place in history with a stunning penalty-shootout victory over Spain to retain their European title at Euro 2025.
Chloe Kelly, who scored the iconic winner at Wembley in the final of Euro 2022, was the hero again as she converted the decisive spot-kick to seal 3-1 penalty victory after Spain had missed three in a row, with Hannah Hampton saving two of them.
It is the first time an English team has won a major trophy on foreign soil.
It seals manager Sarina Wiegman’s status as one of the world’s greatest with her third successive European title – achieved with two countries.
The Lionesses also became the first side to win a single-legged Euros final having been behind at half-time, proving they are the ultimate comeback queens.
Mariona Caldentey’s first-half header had put Spain in control, but it did little to dampen England’s unwavering belief and they refused to be beaten.
Substitute Kelly’s introduction changed things when she came on for a struggling Lauren James, named in the starting eleven by Wiegman despite doubts over an ankle injury in the build-up.
Kelly’s whipped cross picked out Alessia Russo, who headed the ball into the far corner to make it 1-1.
The Lionesses then dug deep, putting in endless blocks and playing for a shootout, knowing they had what it took to deliver under pressure and complete the greatest achievement by an England team.
English (US) ·