The Lionesses have done it again. Through nerve, grit and late drama, England’s women are set to play in their second successive European Championship final. Their journey through Euro 2025 has captivated British audiences and gripped the footballing world. Now, as the team awaits the outcome of the gripping Germany v Spain semi-final, excitement is building about not just the final itself but also a potential parade to celebrate the women who have inspired a nation.
The Dramatic Semi-Final Comeback
Tuesday night’s victory against Italy felt straight out of a footballing script. For much of the game, it looked like the defending champions would bow out early. Barbara Bonansea struck for Italy in the 33rd minute, sending shockwaves through England’s camp. But in the sixth minute of added time, 19-year-old substitute Michelle Agyemang levelled the score, her third goal in only four matches for her country. The crowd at Geneva erupted, and England’s hopes soared.
The deadlock continued deep into extra time before Chloe Kelly, now famous for her composure under pressure, scored the winner in the 119th minute. Her finish from a rebound spurred joy among the players and fans alike and secured England’s place on football’s biggest continental stage once again.
Planning for a National Celebration
As England prepare for the final, officials and fans alike are in discussion about how best to mark another potential triumph. Talks are underway about giving England’s women the recognition they deserve with a celebratory parade, should they take home the trophy on Sunday. Sources close to the FA confirm preliminary plans are discussed, aiming to build on the parade that followed the squad’s Euro 2022 victory in London.
Public enthusiasm for a parade is palpable. The 2022 celebrations were hailed as a milestone for women’s football and inspired increased participation at grassroots levels across the country. The women’s team’s consistent success on big stages has dramatically boosted interest and investment in the sport in the UK.
England’s Resilience and Star Performers
England’s road to the final has not come easy. Despite several late-game scares—against Sweden, Italy, and France—the Lionesses have showcased resilience and an unyielding belief in themselves. The squad has only held a lead for a matter of minutes in knockout matches, making their comebacks even more impressive.
Michelle Agyemang, with three goals in just four caps, has rapidly become a sensation. Chloe Kelly, still riding high after her legendary penalty in 2022, repeated her heroics with the winner against Italy. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton has also drawn plaudits for her crucial saves, repeatedly keeping England in contention.
On the tactical front, manager Sarina Wiegman’s decisions continue to stir debate. Her ability to adapt has paid dividends, with England making their third straight major final, including the last World Cup. Some pundits have questioned the team’s lack of early control in matches, yet few can dispute Wiegman’s ability to rally her players at critical moments.
Royalty and Sporting Legends Join the Chorus
Messages of congratulations and encouragement have flooded in from across the UK. Prince William, a long-term supporter of women’s football and president of the FA, will attend Sunday’s final in Basel. His social media posts praised the Lionesses’ “brilliant performance,” echoing national pride.
Sporting icons from other disciplines, including Sir David Beckham, Sir Lewis Hamilton, and England men’s captain Harry Kane, posted public messages celebrating the team’s achievements, further demonstrating how integral the Lionesses have become to the country’s sporting identity.
Record-Breaking Tournament for Women’s Football
This year’s European Championship has shattered previous records. Ticket sales for the tournament in Switzerland have outstripped even the historic numbers from the 2022 edition hosted in England. Eight venues across Switzerland have welcomed thousands of travelling fans, demonstrating the game’s growing popularity and commercial power in Britain and across Europe.
UK government officials and the Foreign Office have coordinated efforts to help British fans travel safely and enjoy the event, offering practical advice and support before and during the tournament. The government has also highlighted women’s football as a driver for social progress and economic growth in the UK.
Germany v Spain, a Clash of Titans
While England celebrates, attention now shifts to the semi-final showdown between Germany and Spain. Germany, with eight European titles, stand as the continent’s most successful team. However, this Spanish side—World Cup holders and European title hopefuls—aim to break tradition and reach their first-ever Women’s Euro final.
Their head-to-head history is lopsided; Germany has never lost to Spain in eight meetings, winning five and drawing three. Spain’s manager, Montse Tomé, remains bullish about their prospects, stating that her squad are “destined for greatness.” Germany, meanwhile, continue to rely on stalwarts such as Ann-Katrin Berger and dynamic wingers Klara Bühl and Jules Brand, whose work rate and skill have been pivotal so far.
Pundits predict a close contest, with Spain’s attacking firepower facing Germany’s discipline and tournament know-how. Whoever triumphs, the final promises a classic encounter.
England’s Date with Destiny
The Lionesses will face either an old rival or a new challenger on Sunday at St. Jakob-Park in Basel, with kick-off scheduled for 20:00 BST. Should they emerge victorious, it will mark a watershed moment—back-to-back European titles, the footballing equivalent of scaling Everest twice in a row.
As England awaits its next sporting chapter, one thing is clear: the women’s game is now firmly in the spotlight. Win or lose, the Lionesses have already made history, and their legacy will echo throughout the summer and beyond.
