England ended their wait for a major trophy as Chloe Kelly’s extra-time winner handed them a 2-1 win against Germany in the women’s European Championship final.
Watched on by a record-breaking crowd of 87,192 at Wembley Stadium, England went ahead through substitute Ella Toone before being pegged back by Germany’s Lina Magull.
But Kelly provided the perfect finish for England after coming on as a substitute, scoring in the 110th minute to give the Lionesses their first major tournament triumph and England’s first for men or women since the 1966 World Cup. Lauren Hemp’s corner fell to the Manchester City forward, who poked past Germany keeper Merle Frohms at the second attempt. After a brief moment of confusion, Kelly ripped off her shirt and celebrated wildly.
England captain Leah Williamson called the title the “proudest moment of my life” in emotional post-match scenes at Wembley.
“I just can’t stop crying,” Williamson said. “We talk, we talk and we talk and we finally done it. You know what, the kids are alright. This is the proudest moment of my life.
“Listen, the legacy of this tournament is the change in society. The legacy of this team is winners and that is the journey. I love every single one of you, I’m so proud to be English. I’m trying so hard not to swear.”
Consistency had been key for England in their run to the final, so it was no surprise when manager Sarina Wiegman named the same starting XI for a sixth consecutive match — the first team to do that in men’s or women’s Euro history.
Their win, over a country that have previously defeated so many England sides — both men and women — also earned a message of congratulations from Queen Elizabeth.
“Your success goes far beyond the trophy you have so deservedly earned. You have all set an example that will be an inspiration for girls and women today, and for future generations,” the queen wrote.
“It is my hope that you will be as proud of the impact you have had on your sport as you are of the result today.”
