Against all odds, England’s Lionesses clinched the Euro 2025 title, a victory that solidified Sarina Wiegman’s status as a coaching legend in women’s football. Their journey was anything but smooth, marked by comebacks, penalty shootouts, and a never-say-die spirit that ultimately propelled them to glory. The final against Spain, a rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, saw England triumph 3-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, avenging their previous defeat and etching their names in football history. This triumph wasn’t built on consistent dominance but rather on resilience, mental fortitude, and the unwavering belief instilled by Wiegman. Their ability to claw their way back from deficits, particularly in the knockout stages, showcased a unique blend of talent and tenacity. This improbable journey to the championship epitomized their resilience, transforming them from underdogs to European champions.
The tournament journey was a rollercoaster, starting with a 2-1 defeat against France. England then staged remarkable comebacks against Sweden in the quarter-finals and Italy in the semi-finals, both times overcoming two-goal deficits to win on penalties. The final against Spain followed a similar script, highlighting the team’s unwavering belief in their ability to win, regardless of the circumstances. This victory marked a significant milestone – the first time a senior England team, men’s or women’s, lifted a major trophy on foreign soil. While not always the most polished performance, their triumph was built on an unshakeable team spirit and the ability to find a way to win, even when facing seemingly insurmountable odds. This “never give up” attitude, fostered by Wiegman, became their defining characteristic throughout the tournament.
Wiegman’s impact on the Lionesses is undeniable. Before her arrival in 2021, England had never won a major tournament. Under her guidance, they’ve now secured back-to-back European Championships and reached their first Women’s World Cup final. The team’s reliance on late heroics and penalty shootouts underscores a certain dramatic flair, with only three of their nine knockout wins under Wiegman coming within regulation time. However, this trend also highlights their mental strength and ability to perform under pressure. Players consistently praise Wiegman’s leadership, highlighting her influence on their success. Her remarkable track record speaks for itself: five consecutive major tournament finals (European Championships and World Cups) and three consecutive Euro titles, including one with her native Netherlands in 2017.
England’s victory was achieved despite significant pre-tournament setbacks, including the retirements of key players like Mary Earps and Fran Kirby, and the unavailability of captain Millie Bright. Their success underscores the team’s remarkable depth and Wiegman’s ability to leverage the talent on her bench to change the course of matches. While their style of play might not be as aesthetically pleasing or tactically defined as Spain’s, their pragmatic approach, combined with Wiegman’s tactical acumen, proved effective. This adaptability and resilience, coupled with the ability to draw upon the strengths of different players, enabled England to navigate challenging situations and emerge victorious.
Euro 2025 also served as a testament to the growing global popularity of women’s football. The tournament shattered attendance records, surpassing even the highly successful Euro 2022 hosted in England. The final at Wembley in 2022 drew over 87,000 spectators, yet the cumulative attendance for the 2025 tournament in Switzerland exceeded 657,000, showcasing a significant increase in fan engagement and interest in the women’s game. Coupled with Arsenal’s victory over Barcelona in the Women’s Champions League final, this tournament solidified England and Spain as the dominant forces in women’s football. Beyond the top two, other nations also shone, notably Italy, who reached their first semi-final since 1997, adding depth and excitement to the competition.
Looking ahead, the Lionesses will set their sights on the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. Qualifying begins early next year, and the English FA is keen to retain Wiegman, whose contract runs through the World Cup. With the continued rise of Spain and the ever-present threat of the United States, led by English coach Emma Hayes, the competition promises to be fierce. Wiegman believes Euro 2025 will have a lasting impact on the growth of women’s football across the continent. The increased level of play and intensity, she notes, will hopefully boost the game not only in England but across Europe. This tournament served as a platform to showcase the talent and dedication of female footballers, inspiring future generations and further accelerating the development of the women’s game.
