If you ever needed a snapshot of what this new-look England women’s team is all about, just picture Hannah Hampton in goal—nose plugged with tissue to stop a nosebleed—fearlessly diving to save two penalties.
It was gritty. It was gutsy. And it was absolutely glorious.
On a night where the pressure was sky-high, Hampton delivered a heroic performance that not only kept England in the game against Sweden but pushed them into the semi-finals of the Women’s Euros.
All Eyes on Hampton After Wiegman’s Risky Call
The match came with added tension following manager Sarina Wiegman’s bold decision to drop longtime number one Mary Earps—a fan favorite and established star—in favor of giving 24-year-old Hampton her big chance.
That gamble paid off big time.
Hampton didn’t just rise to the occasion—she owned it.
Two stunning saves during regular time, two more in the penalty shootout, and a level of composure that you can’t teach.
With blood on her shirt and cotton up her nose, she was unstoppable.
Sweden Starts Strong, but England Fights Back
The Lionesses looked shaky early on, conceding two goals in quick succession and leaving fans fearing an early exit.
But Wiegman’s substitutions sparked a comeback.
Chloe Kelly had barely been on the pitch a minute when she swung in a perfect cross for Lucy Bronze, who headed in England’s first goal.
Just two minutes later, Kelly linked up again—this time finding Beth Mead, who assisted 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang to level the score.
What’s even more impressive? None of these game-changers had been on the field more than 10 minutes.
Hampton Steals the Show with a Performance for the Ages
Despite all the big names and exciting goals, it was Hampton who ended the night with the biggest ovation.
Her presence in goal was commanding—reading the game like a seasoned pro and denying Sweden again and again.
It wasn’t just about raw skill, either. Hampton played with heart, intensity, and joy—traits that earned her the Player of the Match title.
During the post-match press conference, she even picked up a FaceTime call from her family, grinning from ear to ear as she introduced them to the press before politely hanging up:
“Hold on, I’m in a presser, I’ve got to go, I’ll call you back!”
A Humble Star Reflects on Her Hard-Fought Journey
For Hampton, this moment has been a long time coming.
Her path back to wearing the England shirt has had its share of setbacks, and she didn’t shy away from talking about that after the match.
“It’s been a difficult couple of years within the England environment,” she admitted.
“All the girls were ecstatic… they’ve seen the hard work and helped me get to where I am now.
I’m just so happy to wear the shirt again and do whatever I can for the team.”
She was even jokingly reminded about a huge save she made just before halftime.
Her response? “I’ve just played 120 minutes—I can’t remember the first 45!”
Even Wiegman Couldn’t Ignore Hampton’s Brilliance
Wiegman is known for avoiding praise of individuals, but even she couldn’t ignore Hampton’s heroics this time.
Reflecting on the penalty shootout, the Dutch manager pointed to Hampton’s save on the third penalty as a turning point.
“That was an incredible save that kept us in it,” Wiegman said.
“She made a massive difference tonight.”
Into the Semis—Not Perfect, But Powerful
It wasn’t the tidiest win. England had to dig deep, scrap hard, and rely on some chaotic moments to survive.
But survive they did—and they’re now heading into the semi-finals with a renewed sense of belief and a new hero between the posts.
With Hampton at the heart of it all—bloody nose and all—it’s clear that England’s next chapter has officially begun.