England's Lionesses have only gone and bloody done it, haven't they? They've won their first ever European Championship title, and they did it in style, beating the World Cup champions Spain in a penalty shootout. About time, if you ask me.
Chloe Kelly, the hero we all needed
Chloe Kelly, what a ledge. The absolute legend scored the winning spot-kick to secure a 3-1 victory in Basel, and let me tell you, it was a thing of beauty. And let's not forget Hannah Hampton, who saved two efforts. Not too shabby, eh?
Revenge is a dish best served on the pitch
The Lionesses finally got their revenge on the Spaniards after their 1-0 defeat in the 2023 World Cup. Sarina Wiegman and her team are now European champions, and they made history in the process. They're the first English side to win a major tournament on foreign soil. Take that, Spain.
Records broken, history made
Not only are England the first men's or women's team to win two titles, having defended their crown from Euro 2022, but they're also only the second side to retain the Women's Euros title, along with Germany. They led for only four minutes and 52 seconds in the entire knockout stages of the tournament. Impressive stuff, if you ask me.
A game of ups and downs
The match started off with Mariona Caldentey heading Spain in front, despite them being on the back foot early on. England suffered a setback just before half-time when Lauren James was subbed with another injury issue. But Alessia Russo equalised for the Lionesses during the early stages of the second half after meeting an excellent Chloe Kelly cross.
The tensest extra-time in history
The extra-time that followed was nervy, to say the least. England seemed content to hold onto a 1-1 draw as penalties loomed. And penalties it was. Beth Mead scored her first spot-kick but missed her second after having to retake her effort for a double-hit. Despite this, Alex Greenwood levelled for England, and Hampton saved Caldentey's effort. Niamh Charles put the Lionesses ahead, with Hampton denying two-time Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati. Leah Williamson missed for England, but so did Salma Paralluelo, giving Kelly the chance for glory.
Chloe Kelly, national treasure
And the Arsenal star made no mistake from 12 yards as she fired in for her country. Kelly has scored the decisive goal in back-to-back Euros finals and cemented her status as a Lioness legend. She also netted the match-winning penalty against Italy in their dramatic semi-final victory. What a tournament it's been for her.
