The Lionesses Bring It Home: Our Reaction to Euro 2025 Win
It’s impossible to start today without talking about football. Wasn’t it brilliant? The Lionesses have done it again, bringing football home for the second time in a row. Last night, they lifted the 2025 Women’s Euro Trophy after a nerve-wracking showdown against Spain. The match ended in a dramatic 3-1 penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw, cementing their place in history.
Under the stellar guidance of Serena Wiegman, the Lionesses have become the first senior England team, male or female, to win back-to-back European Championships. This historic achievement has even sparked debates among fans about whether Wiegman should manage the men’s national team. However, many believe she’s right where she belongs, continuing to inspire and redefine women’s football.
The match itself was a rollercoaster of emotions. Penalty shootouts are always intense, and fans were on the edge of their seats. As one viewer shared, "I hate penalties, but when you win by them, it’s just so exciting." The excitement wasn’t limited to adult fans. One household described kids crowding around the TV, breathlessly cheering for the Lionesses. It’s a testament to how the team has captured the hearts of fans across all ages and genders, showing how far women’s football has come in terms of recognition and support.
The Lionesses aren’t just winning games, they’re changing the game. Every time they step onto the pitch, they break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and inspire future generations. However, some found it frustrating that Wiegman’s success is still viewed through the lens of comparison to the men's game. Why is managing the men’s team seen as an “upgrade”? As one fan passionately put it, “You can’t nick her, the ladies have got her.”
Beyond their physical prowess, the Lionesses’ success highlights the importance of teamwork, trust, and vulnerability. Wiegman’s management style focuses on open communication, encouraging players to share their struggles and support one another. It’s a philosophy that resonates beyond the pitch. As one player, Beth Mead, explained, “We’ve made ourselves very vulnerable. I think that gives us much more togetherness.”
This approach isn’t entirely new. Gareth Southgate employed a similar strategy with the men’s team, fostering a sense of unity and emotional openness. It’s a modern, refreshing way to approach competition, moving away from outdated notions of “toughness” and embracing vulnerability as a strength.
Vulnerability, as many have observed, can be a unifying force. Sharing struggles builds trust and connection, whether on the pitch or in daily life. One panelist reflected on how openly discussing mental health strengthened her relationships with others. “When I share my struggles, it makes me feel less alone, and it builds trust,” she said. This sense of solidarity is what the Lionesses have brought to their game and to their fans.
Their victory is more than just a win; it’s a symbol of progress, resilience, and the power of unity. From their groundbreaking achievements to the way they’ve inspired boys and girls alike, the Lionesses have proven that football is for everyone. Their triumph reminds us that teamwork, trust, and communication are the keys to success, not just in sports but in life.
Congratulations, Lionesses. You’ve made history, and we couldn’t be prouder.
