England Women have successfully defended their European championship title following a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Spain.
The world champions went in front after Mariona Caldentey powered home a header in the 25th minute. However, the Lionesses rallied and levelled the score when Alessia Russo headed in a cross from substitute Chloe Kelly, who had replaced an injured Lauren James, just shy of the hour mark.
Opportunities were scarce for both teams during the remaining 60 minutes, including extra time, which resulted in penalties taking place. Beth Mead was first to take a spot-kick and while she did scored, her strike was deemed a double-touch, necessitating a re-take which was subsequently saved.
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Nonetheless, England's fortunes improved as Spain failed to convert two of their first three penalties, thanks to goalkeeper Hannah Hampton's heroics. Alex Greenwood and Niamh Charles both managed to find the back of the net for England.
Despite Leah Williamson's miss, Salma Paraluello's firing off target gave Chloe Kelly the opportunity to secure the win, which she duly did.
Even before the trophy was lifted, plans for victory celebrations had already been confirmed. Gabby Logan disclosed on BBC that a victory parade would be held in central London on Tuesday, July 29th with Lionesses confirming as such.
Astatement on their website read: "The 2025 UEFA Women’s EURO winners, England, will celebrate their historic triumph with fans at a homecoming celebration event in central London on Tuesday 29 July.
Fans will have the opportunity to celebrate and show their support for Sarina Wiegman and the Lionesses at an open-top bus procession along The Mall, which will start at 12.10pm, culminating with a staged ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial in front of Buckingham Palace starting at approximately 12.30pm.
"The homecoming celebration will be broadcast live across the BBC, ITV and Sky between 12pm noon and 1pm, with extensive news coverage being provided throughout the day across BBC, ITN and Sky channels. Fans can also follow coverage of the event across England’s social media channels.
"The homecoming staged ceremony at the Queen Victoria Memorial will be hosted by Alex Scott. The event is free to attend, and those attending will be able to watch the Band of His Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth and the Central Band of the Royal Air Force welcome home the victorious England team, enjoy live music from DJ CharStape and see tournament highlights shown on big screens, before Sarina Wiegman and the Lionesses take the stage for a special European Championship winners trophy lift presentation.
"These celebrations will be hosted by the Football Association, supported by the UK Government.
"Further details on the homecoming celebration event, including general guidance, timings and travel information, will be shared in due course. London is going to be very busy so people should plan their visits carefully, both coming into central London and travelling home."
Prior to the final, The Guardian reported discussions among officials about a potential parade through central London, a visit to Downing Street, and even a possible trip to Buckingham Palace.
While a bank holiday may not be on the cards just yet, Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing calls to grant the nation an extra day off. Liberal Democrat culture, media and sport spokesman Max Wilkinson has championed the cause, stating: "The Lionesses can make history on Sunday and retain the Euros title they won so memorably three years ago.
"If they do that, the Prime Minister should give us a Public Holiday to honour their achievement. Retaining the title would be one of our country's greatest sporting achievements.
"Fans and patriots across the country deserve the chance to celebrate the talent, success and historic achievement of this amazing team.
"A Bank Holiday would also give our hospitality industry a much-needed assist and boost. The Prime Minister is a football fan – we've all seen the pictures of him enjoying a kick around with his mates.
"If Wiegman's heroes deliver glory, we'll all be hoping he'll put the ball into an empty net by giving the Lionesses and the rest of us a chance to mark the occasion. A Bank Holiday would also give our hospitality industry a much-needed assist and boost."
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