England Triumphs in Thrilling Euros Final Against Spain

The England Lionesses successfully defended their UEFA Women’s Euro title, winning against Spain in a dramatic penalty shootout on July 31, 2024, in Basel, Switzerland. The match concluded 1-1 after extra time, with England emerging victorious after a tense shootout, securing their second consecutive Euros championship.

Spain took an early lead in the 25th minute when Mariona Caldentey capitalized on a defensive lapse, heading a cross from Ona Batlle past England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton. England struggled initially, particularly with Lauren James sidelined due to an ankle injury. However, coach Sarina Wiegman‘s decision to substitute in Kelly before half-time proved pivotal.

Kelly’s introduction revitalized the team, and she provided a crucial assist for Alessia Russo, who equalized in the 57th minute with a precise header. Despite Spain controlling possession, they could not find a second goal, leading to extra time where both teams remained locked at 1-1.

The penalty shootout began dramatically, with Spain’s goalkeeper Cata Coll saving an attempt from Beth Mead. However, England’s Hampton responded with impressive saves against Caldentey and Aitana Bonmati, giving England a crucial advantage. Coll managed to stop a shot from Leah Williamson, but Spain’s Salma Paralluelo missed her penalty, hitting it wide.

This set the stage for Kelly, who had previously scored the decisive goal in the 2022 final against Germany. With a signature run-up, she confidently struck the ball into the net, celebrating with her teammates in front of the jubilant England fans.

“I’m so proud of this team, so grateful to wear this badge, and I’m so proud to be English,” Kelly remarked after the match. “I was cool, I was composed, and I knew I was going to hit the back of the net.”

This final marked the first time since the inaugural tournament in 1984 that the championship was decided by penalties. An ecstatic Hampton reflected on the team’s resilience: “Unbelievable, incredible. We showed throughout this tournament that we can come back when we go a goal down. We just keep going, and we did that today.”

With this victory, the England Lionesses continue to solidify their position as one of the leading teams in women’s football, showcasing not only skill but also determination and grit throughout the tournament.