Sunday night turned into a whirlwind of celebration for England’s Lionesses, who pulled off another unforgettable victory on the biggest European stage.
In a match full of nerves, resilience, and sheer grit, Sarina Wiegman’s squad beat Spain—yes, the reigning world champions—on penalties to keep hold of their Women’s Euros crown.
Falling Behind, Again… But Fighting Back
For the third knockout match in a row, England didn’t get off to a dream start.
Spain took the lead through Mariona Caldentey, putting the Lionesses under pressure yet again. But they didn’t buckle.
Alessia Russo stepped up to deliver the equaliser, dragging England back into the fight and forcing extra time.
The tension kept climbing. Lucy Bronze, already playing with a secretly fractured tibia all summer, had to come off with a fresh knee injury during extra time. Despite that setback, England kept their cool.
Hannah Hampton Saves the Day (Again)
When the game went to penalties, the nerves were through the roof.
But goalkeeper Hannah Hampton wasn’t fazed one bit.
She saved two crucial spot-kicks—just like she did in the quarter-final against Sweden—securing a 3-1 shootout win for the Lionesses.
Cue the celebrations. The players burst into wild cheers as they lifted the trophy once again—this time on foreign soil after their historic 2022 triumph at home.
Chloe Kelly Delivers a Winning Rhyme
Chloe Kelly, who sealed the win with the final penalty (and was also the hero of the 2022 final), couldn’t resist celebrating in style.
As she ran the victory lap, she looked straight into the camera and shouted: “The first time was so nice, we had to do it twice!”
It wasn’t long before the medals were swinging around players’ necks—and a spontaneous singalong began.
A Tunnel Performance and Pizza-Fueled Party
As they made their way down the tunnel, captain Leah Williamson and Beth Mead led the squad in a passionate chorus of “Dancing On My Own” by Robyn.
It was pure joy, pure team spirit, and totally on brand for this lovable group.
But they weren’t done yet. The Lionesses returned to the pitch, this time with boxes of pizza and cans of beer in hand.
Friends and family joined the celebrations, making the night even more special.
Family, Love, and Remembrance
Lauren James snapped a group selfie surrounded by loved ones—including her brother Reece James, the Chelsea men’s captain.
Lauren Hemp wrapped her arms around her girlfriend, ex-footballer Ashley Hodson, savoring the moment together.
For some players, the celebration was also tinged with emotion.
Ella Toone, whose dad passed away last September, posted a touching tribute to both him and Beth Mead’s late mum.
Sharing a photo of her hugging Mead, Toone wrote, “We did it for our angels in the sky. Forever with us & forever proud.”
She later posted another image showing a lone seat—430—next to where her mum had sat.
That empty spot stood out, and Toone wrote: “Spare seat next to my mum tonight.
If that’s not a sign, I don’t know what is. I know you were there Dad. Love you cock.”
Birthday Goals for Beever-Jones
The night was even more special for Aggie Beever-Jones, who celebrated her 22nd birthday with a winners’ medal around her neck.
Alongside teammates Grace Clinton and Jess Park, she posed for a dressing-room selfie before sharing her own moment on Instagram: “BEST BIRTHDAY EVER.”
She and Maya Le Tissier later showed off their medals on the team bus—beaming, exhausted, and elated.
Manager Wiegman Plans a Little Dance (And Maybe a Drink)
Even England boss Sarina Wiegman allowed herself to let loose a bit.
Speaking after the match, she admitted she planned to celebrate, too.
“I’ll do some more dancing,” she said with a smile.
“I’ll have a drink, but I don’t think I’ll drink as much as the players will do.”
And honestly, who could blame them for going all out?
What’s Next?
After this monumental win, attention will soon shift to what’s ahead for the Lionesses.
With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon and a squad filled with both seasoned leaders and rising stars, England are setting themselves up to be a long-term powerhouse in women’s football.
But for now? It’s all about soaking up every bit of this magical moment.
And maybe one more slice of pizza.
