“Solutions on the Square”
England did not get off to a good start. After just one minute, goalkeeper Mary Earps was challenged by a shot by ex-Bayern professional Sofia Jakobsson. The English offensive was difficult. But: “Once again, the team has found a way,” said Wiegman, who regularly emphasizes that her players are prepared for all possible scenarios. “We got better and better. The players on the pitch found solutions.”
The reactions were euphoric. “This is an England team like no other,” said the Guardian, jokingly writing, “Quick, check your passports.” Former national team player and BBC presenter Alex Scott, who lost the European Championship final with England in 2009 against Germany, could hardly believe it either. “Can someone pinch me?” she said while the singing continued on Bramall Lane. “It’s hard for me not to get emotional.”
Prince William congratulates the Lionesses
Prince William was among the first to wish well. “The whole country is so proud of everything you achieve,” he wrote on Twitter. “I’ve never been so proud of an England team,” ex-international Ian Wright enthused on the BBC. Numerous other active and former football professionals, including Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Gary Lineker and Wayne Rooney, congratulated the Lionesses.
Will England’s women’s soccer team achieve what their male colleagues failed to do last year? The European Championship title in their own country would not only be the first major trophy for the Lionesses, but also the greatest success for English football since winning the men’s World Cup in 1966 – also at Wembley Stadium.
The chances are good. Because Sarina Wiegman has turned the previously untitled English national team into a real candidate for the title. The English women have been unbeaten in 19 games. And maybe on Sunday the lyrics of the ironically meant English football cult anthem will finally come true: “Football’s coming home.”