Chloe Kelly, Hannah Hampton and Michelle Agyemang among the star performers as Sarina Wiegman’s England win Euro 2025; Lionesses clinched dramatic victory in final with shoot-out win over Spain in Switzerland; here we rate their tournament displays
England are European champions again! Here we rate the performances of the Lionesses at Euro 2025…
Barely put a glove wrong. She set the tone with an extraordinary defence-splitting pass to beat the Dutch press in England’s 4-0 win over the Netherlands on matchday two. It was the pass of the tournament.
Player of the match in the final, saving two Spain penalties in the shoot-out, says everything about her big-game mentality.
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The chief warrior, running through brick walls for the team and sparking that unlikely revival with a goal in the Sweden game as England looked as good as beaten. Only after the trophy had been lifted did Bronze reveal she played the entire tournament with a broken tibia. What a fighter.
Given the nod to start against Italy, playing 120 minutes of a high-pressured game.
She coped superbly, winning 100 per cent of tackles and registered 97 per cent passing accuracy. Will be a big part of Sarina Wiegman’s succession planning in central defence.
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Another player England cannot be without. Eighteen defensive actions to nullify Spain’s danger players, 11 clearances, 100 per cent of tackles won.
Might have missed her penalty in the shoot-out but England would not have made it to that stage without her contribution across the 120 minutes – and rest of the tournament.
Perhaps Carter is England’s greatest example of resilience. She started the tournament nervously, was subject to vile online abuse and had the bravery to speak out on it, before being dropped for the semi-final and reinstated for the final. A rollercoaster ride, met with impeccable grace.
She made plenty of vital interceptions and challenges to thwart Spain in the final.
Used as Bronze’s deputy but played the role admirably, offering energy and verve when tired legs were flagging. England are blessed to have so many players willing to accept their function as ‘finishers’. Next major tournament might even see a promotion to starter.
Source: Skysports
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