The Lionesses Show the England Men’s Team How It’s Done
For decades, the England men’s national team have promised so much but delivered little on the international stage. Since that famous 1966 World Cup triumph, fans have endured a near-60-year wait for another major title. In stark contrast, the Lionesses, England’s women’s national team, have emerged as a dominant force, winning trophies, reaching finals, and transforming the perception of English football worldwide.
Wiegman Takes England To Third Final In A Row
Under the guidance of Sarina Wiegman, the Lionesses have become the blueprint for how international success can be achieved. Their historic UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 victory at Wembley was a watershed moment. Not only did it mark the team’s first-ever major tournament win, but it also reignited national pride in English football. With record-breaking crowds and a never-say-die attitude, England defeated Germany in extra time.
🏆 OUR ENGLAND. OUR CHAMPIONS. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/gf4BHUd5fW
— Lionesses (@Lionesses) July 31, 2022
Momentum didn’t stop there. At the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, the Lionesses reached the final, another first for the team. They edged past teams like Colombia and Australia before narrowly losing 1-0 to an exceptional Spain side. While the result was disappointing, England’s performance throughout the tournament was a testament to their consistency, belief, and status among the global elite.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Lionesses have done it again, reaching the UEFA Women’s Euro final in back-to-back tournaments. Their journey has once again been marked by resilience, with standout performances from the likes of Ella Toone and Michelle Agyemang. All this comes in an era where the men’s team, despite boasting talents like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden, have yet to get over the final hurdle.
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In contrast, the Lionesses are making winning, or at least competing for titles, a habit. Their mentality, chemistry, and tactical flexibility make them a formidable unit, capable of beating any side in the world. More importantly, they’ve done this while shouldering the responsibility of growing women’s football and inspiring the next generation.
Knockout Highlights
- Quarter-final vs Sweden: Trailed 2–0, came back via Lucy Bronze and Michelle Agyemang to win the shoot‑out 3–2
- Semi-final vs Italy: Agyemang equalised at 95:01, Kelly scored in the 119th minute — her goal is now the latest ever at UEFA Women’s Euro
- England became the first team at Euro 2025 to reach both QF and SF after conceding first, and third team to reach three consecutive major finals (World Cup/EURO)
Transformative Team That Young People Look Up To
It’s not just about silverware. The Lionesses’ influence has led to youth participation among young girls surging, for example. Stadiums are selling out. TV ratings are setting records. They’re not just succeeding, they’re transforming the game at every level. All the while, the men’s side continues to battle accusations of underachievement and missed opportunities.
The latest football betting shows that England’s women’s team are now considered as one of the genuine contenders in all major tournaments. You could say the same about the men’s team, but how many believe they are genuine contenders to go all the way remains to be seen. The Lionesses’ status in this regard also heaps pressure on the men’s team and Thomas Tuchel to go from being one of the betting favourites to genuine challengers.
In many ways, the Lionesses are doing what England fans have long hoped to see from the men’s side: they’re showing up, stepping up, and bringing home results, even when the going gets tough. While the men’s squad continues their quest for a long-overdue trophy, the Lionesses are busy building a legacy of success.