England Calm and Confident Ahead of Blockbuster EURO 2025 Final Against Spain
As the Lionesses prepare to clash with world champions Spain in Sunday’s UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 final, midfielder Ella Toone insists England are embracing the moment, not crumbling under pressure. Having battled through dramatic knockout wins, the reigning champions are focused, unified, and eager to write another historic chapter.
All Eyes on Basel: England Set for Third Straight Final
The stage is set in Basel for what promises to be a thrilling contest between two of the most dominant teams in women’s football. For England, it marks a third consecutive appearance in a major tournament final—a feat that already fills the squad with pride, says Toone.
“We’ve made it this far three times in a row, and that’s something to be incredibly proud of,” the 25-year-old said during a media briefing at England’s team base. “We wanted to make the nation proud, and I believe we’ve already done that.”
With the weight of a nation’s hopes on their shoulders, Toone made it clear the team isn’t allowing external expectations to impact their mindset.
“The only pressure we feel is what we put on ourselves. We know the importance of inspiring the next generation, but there’s no pressure from outside the camp.”
England’s Road to the Final: Full of Drama, But Full of Heart
England’s journey to the final hasn’t been straightforward. A dramatic quarter-final against Sweden followed by a heart-stopping semi-final win over Italy showcased the Lionesses’ resilience. Both games were decided in extra time, with 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang emerging as the hero with last-gasp goals.
“It’s been wild!” Toone admitted. “We’ve made it dramatic, that’s for sure. It would be lovely to win in 90 minutes for once. But we never stop fighting.”
Toone also joked about the toll these nail-biters have taken on head coach Sarina Wiegman. “I think we’ve nearly aged her about 10 years this tournament,” she laughed.
Wiegman’s Historic Run and the Team’s Unshakable Bond
Sarina Wiegman continues to make history of her own, becoming the first coach—male or female—to lead teams to five consecutive major international finals. After two with the Netherlands, she’s now taken England to three straight finals since taking the helm in 2021.
“When we step onto the pitch, we play for each other, for the staff, for the fans—and definitely for Sarina,” Toone added.
Veteran Leadership and Young Stars Shine
Veteran defender Lucy Bronze is set to break a new record, surpassing Jill Scott’s mark with her 36th major tournament appearance. Bronze, who slotted home the decisive penalty in the shootout against Sweden, continues to inspire teammates both on and off the field.
“She’s an absolute beast,” Toone said. “She’s our oldest player and she just played two full games of 120 minutes. Everyone looks up to her—she leads by example.”
At the other end of the experience spectrum, Toone heaped praise on rising star Michelle Agyemang. The teenager has been a revelation in the knockout stages, delivering when it mattered most.
“She plays like she’s 30,” said Toone. “So mature, so calm under pressure. She’s been incredible for us.”
Toone, whose memorable goal in the 2022 final cemented her status as a fan favourite, joked about the off-field attention Agyemang may soon face. “I’ll have to warn her about getting papped with a pasty like I did!”
Final Thoughts: No Fear, Just Focus
With the final against Spain looming, the Lionesses are keeping cool heads and clear hearts. Whether it ends in another dramatic finish or a dominant performance, Toone and her teammates are ready to give everything on the pitch.
