Cliff Notes
- Spain took an early lead with Mariona Caldentey’s header in the 25th minute, followed by an injury to England’s Lauren James before half-time.
- England equalised in the 57th minute through Alessia Russo’s header, assisted by Chloe Kelly’s impressive cross, as they forced the match into extra time.
- The penalty shootout saw Hannah Hampton make crucial saves, while Kelly netted the decisive penalty, leading England to a 3-1 victory.
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Sunday was an epic battle between England, who were defending their 2022 Euro title, and Spain, the reigning World Cup champions.
Here’s a quick recap…
Lionesses go behind
Mariona Caldentey’s 25th-minute header gave Spain an early lead, raising tensions for England fans.
To make matters worse, star winger Lauren James was forced off with an injury just before the break.
There was plenty for the Lionesses to think about at half time, having been outplayed for much of the first half – but it was a situation they had become accustomed to, having come from behind to win both the quarter and semi-final.
England make it level
Striker Alessia Russo’s towering header squared things up in the 57th minute.
Much of the credit rightly went to super sub Chloe Kelly, whose pinpoint cross showed the class England had been lacking in the first half.
From there it was a matter of staying solid at the back for the Lionesses to take Spain to extra time.
A gruelling 30 minutes – then pens
Sarina Wiegman’s side showed their mettle throughout extra time, fending off their opponent’s attacking prowess.
Penalties came in a flash, and fears were heightened when Beth Mead slipped taking England’s first kick before missing the retake.
But Hannah Hampton made two excellent saves to keep the Lionesses in it, before Kelly turned hero again to smash home the winning pen.
3-1 England. The rest is history.
