Lionesses Roar Into Knockouts After Commanding Victory Over Wales
England’s title defense at UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 is back on track after a commanding 6-1 victory over Wales in their final Group D match in St. Gallen. The result ensures the Lionesses finish second in their group and sets up a highly anticipated quarter-final clash with Sweden.
Fast Start Puts England in Control
Coming off a statement 4-0 win against the Netherlands, England wasted little time imposing themselves again. Just 13 minutes in, Georgia Stanway earned a contentious penalty following a VAR check, having been brought down by Carrie Jones. The Bayern Munich midfielder coolly converted from the spot—her third goal in four matches at the tournament.
The momentum didn’t stop there. Just eight minutes later, Ella Toone pounced on a rebound from her own blocked shot to double the lead. Before the half-hour mark, Toone turned creator, delivering a pinpoint cross for Lauren Hemp to head home—her first international goal since October.
First-Half Blitz Stuns Wales
England’s attacking power continued to shine as Alessia Russo, after a series of assists in previous games, finally found the net with a close-range finish from another Toone setup. That strike completed a four-goal first half, mirroring the Lionesses’ ruthless display against the Dutch.
Wales managed to test England’s backline on occasion, with Angharad James forcing a solid save from Hannah Hampton and Rachel Rowe and Jess Fishlock narrowly missing the target. But the difference in class was evident, and England maintained complete control heading into the break.
Second-Half Fireworks Seal the Rout
Despite the comfortable lead, Sarina Wiegman’s squad kept pushing. Substitute Jess Park nearly added her name to the scoresheet after a delightful ball from Keira Walsh, only to be denied by an excellent Olivia Clark save that tipped her shot onto the post.
The Welsh keeper stood firm again to stop a low effort from Stanway, but she could do little as England made it 5-0. Youngster Aggie Beever-Jones combined well with returning star Beth Mead, who calmly slotted home.
Wales finally had something to celebrate when substitute Hannah Cain rocketed Fishlock’s well-weighted pass into the top corner. However, England weren’t finished—Mead and Beever-Jones reversed roles as the Chelsea teenager headed home the sixth to cap an emphatic performance.
England March On, Wales Bow Out
The win extends England’s unbeaten record against Wales to five matches and books their place in the last eight. For Wales, the tournament ends at the group stage—a tough but expected outcome for the debutants in such a competitive pool.
Player of the Match honors went to Ella Toone, who finished with a goal and two assists in a sparkling display of attacking football.
