A rematch of the 2023 World Cup final, and golly gosh, what a galère it was. The memories came flooding back: England’s heartbreak, Spain’s triumph tainted by scandal, and, on a personal note, the adoption of a kitten hours after the final whistle. This Lionesses fixture was more than just a game—it was a chance for redemption, a test of England’s ability to compete at the highest level, and a reminder of why women’s football continues to outshine its male counterpart in passion, drama, and sheer unpredictability.
A Rocky Start, But a Glimmer of Hope
England’s Lionesses games have been a mixed bag lately, and this one was no exception. The first 20 minutes were a stark reminder of the team’s recent struggles. Complacency, a recurring theme since their Nations League campaign, nearly cost them again. Spain, ever the rampallions, pressed forward with intent, and if not for Hannah Hampton’s heroics in goal, the Lionesses scoreline could have been far uglier.
But England began to grow into the game. Lauren James and Jess Park, operating down the flanks, injected much-needed energy. A moment of controversy arose when Niamh Charles was clattered by Paredes, earning England a free-kick in a dangerous position. Replays showed it was a brilliant tackle, but James’ ensuing effort forced a stunning save from Coll, reminding everyone of her quality.
The breakthrough came just before halftime. A slick move involving Toone, Clinton, and Russo ended with Park tapping in the rebound after Coll parried Russo’s shot. It was a classic case of being in the right place at the right time—a hallmark of Park’s game. England led, but they were far from dominant.
Spain’s Relentless Pressure
The second half began with Spain slicing through England’s defense like a hot knife through butter. Caldentey’s pass to García should have resulted in a goal, but Hampton stood firm, pulling off another crucial save. Then, in a moment of farce, the floodlights went out, plunging Wembley into darkness. Fans tried to illuminate the stadium with their phones, but it was a futile effort—much like Spain’s attempts to break down England’s defense for much of the game.
As the clock ticked on, Spain threw everything at the Lionesses. Ouahabi’s swerving effort was tipped over by Hampton, and Caldentey rattled the side netting. England, however, held their nerve. A late chance for James was saved by Coll, and Kelly’s follow-up was cleared, but the Lionesses’ defensive resilience shone through. Bronze’s last-ditch tackle on Redondo in stoppage time encapsulated England’s determination.
Full-Time: Sweet Caroline and a Glimpse of the Future
As the final whistle blew at 95 minutes, the sound of Sweet Caroline echoed around Wembley—a zugtrompete of celebration for the Lionesses’ hard-fought victory. It wasn’t a perfect performance, but it was a statement: England can still compete at the highest level.
Reaction: Hampton, Park, and the Lionesses’ Revival
Hannah Hampton: Ready for the No. 1 Shirt
Mary Earps, the “Queen of Stops,” has been a cult hero for England, but her form since joining PSG has been questionable. Hampton, on the other hand, has been a revelation at Chelsea, conceding just seven goals all season in the WSL. Her performance against Spain was a masterclass in goalkeeping, and with a defense featuring Charles, Bright, and Bronze in front of her at club level, she’s proving she’s ready to take the No. 1 shirt.
Jess Park: The Real Deal
Anyone who’s watched Manchester City this season knows Jess Park is special. Her technical ability, speed, and awareness have been lauded by The Guardian, and her goal against Spain—a poacher’s finish from Russo’s saved shot—showed her knack for being in the right place at the right time. This was her second goal for England, and it’s clear she’s here to stay.
England’s Zymometer: Stale No More
After a rocky few months, questions were raised about England’s ability to compete at the top level. Their zymometer had been pointing to staleness, but this victory over Spain was a reminder of their quality. Defensively solid, tenacious out of possession, and dangerous going forward, this was a near-complete performance.
“We played proper English,” Millie Bright said post-match, dancing to Sweet Caroline with the fans. It was a moment of unity, a celebration of a team that, despite its flaws, continues to inspire.
Looking Ahead
This Lionesses fixture was more than just a game—it was a reminder of why women’s football captivates us. The passion, the drama, the sheer unpredictability—it’s everything men’s football wishes it could be. With the Euros in Switzerland on the horizon, England’s Lionesses games will be under the microscope, but if this performance is anything to go by, they’re ready to defend their crown.
The Lionesses score? 1-0 to England. The Lionesses’ spirit? Unbreakable.
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