England defeated Germany 2-1 at the UEFA European Women’s Championship to win their first ever major women’s tournament sold out Wembley on Sunday.
Chloe Kelly’s extra-time goal sank the resilient German women to end English football’s 56-year wait for a World Cup or Euro victory.
After a goalless first half, Manchester United’s Ella Toone broke the deadlock with a sublime lob (62′) less than 10 minutes after coming in as a substitution.
Toone’s goal wasn’t enough to give the hosts the victory against the Germans who drew level in the 79th minute through Lina Magull.
However, the Lionesses had the last say when Manchester City’s Kelly scored the winner (110′) to give England their maiden EURO trophy.
In front of a record crowd of 87,192 for any match in the history of the European Championships, Kelly prodded home a loose ball from close range
Chloe Kelly speaks to the BBC: “Oh my god! Look at them, it’s amazing, thank you every single person who has supported us. This is unreal!” The post-match interview is interrupted as the match winner doesn’t want to miss out on the Sweet Caroline celebrations!
She continued: “Honestly it’s amazing. This is what dreams are made of. As a young girl watching women’s football, this is amazing. Thank you to everyone who played a part in my rehab. I always believed I would be here.”
Ella Toone added: “It doesn’t seem real. I’m buzzing my head off. Honestly the best moment of my career, best moment of my life. I’m so proud to be a part of this group.”
Russo said of Toone’s goal: “Unbelievable, as soon as she got put through I knew it was going in the back of the net.”
Lionesses’ Captain Leah Williamson also said,“I just can’t stop crying. We talk, we talk and we talk and we finally done it. You know what the kids are alright. This is the proudest moment of my life.
“Listen the legacy of this tournament is the change in society. The legacy of this team is winners and that is the journey. I love every single one of you, I’m so proud to be English. I’m trying so hard not to swear.
And Jill Scott, who has been an England player for 16 years, added: “I actually can’t believe it. We have an incredible group of staff. What a day. What a day. The young players have been fantastic, so grateful for every moment of this team.
“Yeah they are going to be big. I don’t think I’m going to sleep this week!”
