England Retains Women’s Euro Title with Penalty Victory Over Spain

The triumphant England women’s squad received a hero’s welcome upon their return home on Monday, celebrating their Euro 2025 victory. Government officials hosted a special reception to honor the team’s achievement, recognizing its inspirational impact on the nation’s youth.

In a thrilling penalty shootout in Basel on Sunday, Chloe Kelly secured the win for England, successfully defending their European Championship title won on home ground three years prior. England defeated Spain 3-1 on penalties.

The team’s plane, adorned with the England badge, a red Nike logo, and the word ‘Home,’ landed at London’s Southend Airport on Monday afternoon. This imagery references the famous soccer song ‘Three Lions’ and its iconic lyric, ‘it’s coming home.’

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who will host the Downing Street reception, stated, “Our Lionesses are absolute champions, as they proved again last night. They are not only bringing it home for England once more but also inspiring the upcoming generation of champions.”

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who will be in Scotland meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump and therefore unable to attend the reception, acknowledged the team’s victory as an inspiration to young people across the country.

Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock, an attendee at the Downing Street reception, commented that England’s victory “builds wonderfully on the momentum we’re establishing in women’s sport.”

The team, arriving from Switzerland, was greeted at the Prime Minister’s official London residence later that evening by ministers and representatives from the Football Association (FA).

Despite the FA’s request to avoid airport gatherings due to limited space, hundreds of fans, especially young supporters, gathered along the streets, waving England flags to welcome their team.

Enthusiastic fans displayed signs with messages such as ‘Heroes’ and ‘Well done girls,’ cheering loudly as the players emerged from the airport.

A celebratory event is scheduled for Tuesday in central London, featuring live music and big screens showing highlights from the tournament.

Players were seen arriving at their post-match celebration in a video posted on social media Monday morning, toasting their victory with a glass of wine amid cheers.

“I am immensely proud of this team. I feel privileged to wear this badge and represent England,” Chloe Kelly exclaimed.

England captain Leah Williamson shared her disbelief but noted her underlying confidence that they would secure the trophy. She stated, “Playing for this England team is an incredible honor. We are resilient and unstoppable.”