THE LIONESSES are the queens of Europe once again.
England have retained their crown by beating Spain 3-1 in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Mariona Caldentey put Spain into the lead in the first-half before struck back with a bullet header after the break.
A cagey hour of football followed and penalties were needed, with England stars Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly the heroines.
Here is how ‘s Emillia Hawkins rated the performances.
Hannah Hampton - 10
Took inspiration from Mary Earps in the 2023 World Cup final, playing with confidence from the off.
There was nothing really she could do about Spain’s opening goal given the power behind the ball from Caldentey’s header.
Hampton stayed composed throughout and was the hero once again in the shootout, saving twice.
Lucy Bronze - 7
Initiated an early England attack with a long ball over to Russo in the opening stages, but let Caldentey breeze past her perhaps a bit too easily when Spain broke the deadlock.
Made a few errors but also made some important clearances. A good performance overall.
Leah Williamson - 8
Captain fantastic. Another solid performance from the centre-back, leading by example.
Missed a penalty in the shootout, but it didn’t matter.
Jess Carter - 9
Started nervously but became one of England’s most important players, making some crucial interceptions and challenges.
A real testament to her resilience given everything she has dealt with during this tournament.
Alex Greenwood - 8
Made some crucial blocks in the box and managed to keep Ona Batlle and Athenea del Castillo at bay for the most part.
Keira Walsh - 7
The England midfield faced relentless pressure from the likes of Patri Guijarro, Aitana Bonmati and Alexia Putellas throughout, and Walsh was the player marked most heavily.
However, she still managed to put in a good shift in midfield.
Georgia Stanway - 7
Another composed performance from the midfielder despite facing intense pressure from the Spanish midfield.
She played a part in the England equaliser, sending the ball out wide to Kelly for the assist.
Put her body on the line several times until she was eventually forced off in extra-time.
Ella Toone - 7
Completed 100 per cent of her passes when she was on the pitch before being subbed off for Mead.
Another performance to be proud of.
Lauren Hemp - 7
Never stopped running. Even deep in extra-time she was still able to find enough energy to chase down the Spanish defenders.
Another good performance from the winger.
Alessia Russo - 8
Once again played with fantastic energy, putting all the work in up front just as she has been doing for the entire tournament.
Finally rewarded with another goal, heading the ball nicely into the top-left corner.
Lauren James - 6
Didn’t have much influence on the match going forward but made some important defensive contributions.
Unfortunate to be forced off early due to injury.
SUBSTITUTES
Chloe Kelly (for James, 40) - 9
Had an instant impact - once again.
The winger made her presence known by sending a perfect cross into Russo for the equaliser.
She then scored the winning penalty. Mrs. Reliable.
