Harry Kane and Jack Grealish send ‘incredible’ messages to England’s European champion Lionesses
Harry Kane and Jack Grealish have sent their congratulations after the England women retained their Euro title against Spain.
After a nervy battle against current world champions Spain, England women have retained their Euro crown, winning 3-1 on penalties after a nervy 120 minutes.
The Lionesses struggled in the first half, falling behind courtesy of a Mariona Caldentey header.
They then suffered another blow, losing star attacker Lauren James to injury who was replaced by Chloe Kelly.
The Chelsea midfielder’s exit was a blessing in disguise as 27-year-old Kelly made an instant impact, teeing up Alessia Russo for a superb header.
Normal time and additional time couldn’t separate the two sides with penalties the only way to separate the teams.
Hannah Hampton’s heroics prevailed yet again as she saved two penalties, including keeping out current Ballon d’Or holder Aitana Bonmati.
Kelly, who came up with decisive moments throughout the tournament delivered the winning penalty, smashing the ball into the goal to sheer elation from English fans.
Harry Kane amongst England players sending their congratulations
The Lionesses heroics was met with outpourings of congratulations in England, including from some of their male counterparts.
In the wake of England’s back-to-back Euro titles, Three Lions stars took to social media to praise the “incredible” Lionesses.
On Instagram stories (27 July), Bayern Munich’s Kane reposted the European champions England post, captioned: “Back-to-back! Incredible achievement. Congratulations to all the players and staff!”
Man City‘s Grealish also commended the women’s team, posting on Instagram stories (27 July): “Incredible. Congratulations to all.”
England men should take note from the women
Football Insider verdict
The Lionesses have shown the men how it should be done when it comes to winning international tournaments.
In contrast, the Three Lions are still yet to land silverware since the 1966 World Cup, most recently coming second place to Spain at Euro 2024.
Sir Gareth Southgate did much to change the culture and confidence in the England camp, but he took his country as far as they could go.
Turning to Thomas Tuchel was seen as a logical appointment, given the limited English options available to the FA.
However, the German is yet to face a tough test, even falling 3-1 to Senegal on home turf back in June, suggesting there is much work to do before the 2026 World Cup.
Undoubtedly, the Three Lions have an abundance of talent and should be reaching the latter stages of international tournaments on a consistent basis.
But, trying to wrestle the world title from Argentina in North America will be far from easy, especially given the quality of other international sides such as Spain and Portugal.
Tuchel must find a way to take this England side to the next level and he should channel the Lionesses’ tournament successes.