On 31 July 2022, England’s Lionesses etched their names into history with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Germany in the Euro 2022 final at a packed Wembley Stadium. It was a day of unforgettable drama, emotion, and pride one that changed the landscape of women’s football in England forever.
The morning began with a strange mix of calm and nerves in the England camp. Players were woken repeatedly by faulty blinds at their hotel, leading to tired faces at breakfast. Despite that, the atmosphere was surprisingly relaxed. There was a quiet confidence in the air. One player even remembered looking around the breakfast room and thinking with certainty, “We’re going to win today.”
Meanwhile, fans began streaming into Wembley via Olympic Way, creating a sea of colour and excitement. The occasion was electric joyful and vibrant, a stark contrast to the chaos that had marred the men’s Euros final a year before. The atmosphere inside the stadium before kick-off was filled with anticipation. The last-minute news that Germany’s key striker Alex Popp would not start gave England a timely psychological lift.
As the match unfolded, Ella Toone’s sublime chip gave England the lead before Lina Magull’s equaliser sent the game into extra time. Despite the setback, there was no sense of panic. The players felt they were still in control, still on course. Then came the defining moment 110 minutes in when Chloe Kelly bundled in the winning goal after a corner, sparking bedlam inside Wembley.
Kelly’s celebration ripping off her shirt and whirling it above her head instantly became iconic. On the pitch, players scrambled to protect the lead, expertly running down the clock. As the final whistle blew, emotions spilled over. Tears, screams, disbelief an outpouring of joy washed over players and fans alike. The trophy lift symbolised more than victory; it marked a seismic shift in the status of women’s football.
Celebrations stretched into the night and continued the next day in Trafalgar Square, where the team was greeted like national heroes. It was a moment that validated years of struggle and growth. It inspired a generation and solidified the Lionesses’ legacy not just as champions of Europe, but as pioneers of progress.
