Results of WrestleMania 35 Sunday 7 April 2019

 

Royal Family Joins Nation in Celebrating Lionesses' Historic Euro 2025 Victory

The Royal Family led nationwide celebrations as England's Lionesses claimed their second consecutive European Championship title in a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Spain in Basel, Switzerland. The triumphant moment was marked by emotional scenes both on and off the pitch, with Prince William and Princess Charlotte sharing in the nation's joy.

After an exhausting 120 minutes of intense football that ended goalless, the Lionesses demonstrated remarkable composure during the penalty shootout, ultimately prevailing 3-1 following an early scare when Beth Mead's opening attempt went awry. Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton emerged as a hero with two crucial saves, while substitute Chloe Kelly stepped up to deliver the decisive penalty that sealed England's historic victory.

The emotional climax came when Kelly coolly slotted home the winning spot-kick, prompting wild celebrations across the stadium and throughout the United Kingdom. Speaking after the match, Kelly expressed her pride in the team's achievement, declaring: "I'm so proud of this team, so grateful to wear this badge, and so proud to be English."

Royal Praise and Historic Firsts

In a touching display of royal support, Prince William and his daughter Princess Charlotte made history by personally signing a congratulatory message to the team - marking the first time Princess Charlotte has ever signed an official royal communication. The heartfelt note read: "What a game! @lionesses, you are the champions of Europe and we couldn't be prouder of the whole team. Enjoy this moment @England. W & Charlotte."

The Prince of Wales was spotted in the VIP stands throughout the match, visibly celebrating alongside Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and his wife Victoria. William was seen applauding enthusiastically and sharing in the collective euphoria as Alessia Russo equalized in the 57th minute, diverting Chloe Kelly's cross into the net to level the score at 1-1.

The evening's celebrations extended beyond the stadium, with fans across Britain erupting in spontaneous street parties. Supporters were photographed standing on tables, waving flags, throwing drinks in the air, and embracing strangers in moments of pure joy as England's triumph unfolded.

King Charles Adds Royal Congratulations

King Charles III joined the celebrations by issuing his own message of "heartfelt congratulations" to the victorious team. His statement read: "This brings you, your manager and all your support team my most heartfelt congratulations on winning the EUROS 2025.

"For more years than I care to remember, England fans have sung that famous chant 'football's coming home'. As you return home with the trophy you won at Wembley three years ago, it is a source of great pride that, through sporting skill and awesome teamwork, the Lionesses have made those words ring true.

"For this, you have my whole family's warmest appreciation and admiration. More than that, though, you have shown through your example over past weeks that there are no setbacks so tough that defeat cannot be transformed into victory, even as the final whistle looms.

"Well done, Lionesses. The next task is to bring home the World Cup in 2027 if you possibly can!"

Recognition for Rising Stars

During the post-match presentation ceremony, Prince William took time to personally congratulate 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang on being named Young Player of the Tournament. The Arsenal forward, who had earned just one England cap before the tournament, proved her worth by scoring crucial equalizers in both the quarter-final and semi-final comeback victories.

William was overheard telling Agyemang: "Well played, fantastic, well done," as he praised her outstanding contribution to England's success. The young star received a hero's welcome in her hometown of South Ockendon, where fans lined the streets to applaud as she stepped through a guard of honor to collect her award.

Political leaders from across the spectrum joined the celebrations, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer among the first to congratulate the team. He posted on X: "Champions! Congratulations Lionesses - what a team. What a game. What drama. You dug deep when it mattered most and you've made the nation proud. History makers."

Pre-Match Royal Support

The royal family's support for the Lionesses extended well before kick-off, with the Band of the Grenadier Guards performing the iconic anthem "Three Lions" on the Buckingham Palace forecourt. The royal family's official X account shared a clip of the performance with the caption: "Let's go girls!! Wishing the very best of luck to the Lionesses in the Women's Euro Final this evening."

An image of Prince William and Princess Charlotte was posted on the royal couple's X account shortly before the match, accompanied by the simple but powerful caption "let's go, Lionesses." The Prince of Wales, who serves as patron of the Football Association (FA), was seen standing for the national anthem alongside his daughter, Prime Minister Starmer, and other dignitaries.

Downing Street embraced the football fever by decorating its railings with bunting and displaying the St. George's flag in its windows. Number 10 issued its own message of support: "Good luck today, Lionesses. Let's bring it home."

Road to Redemption

The victory represented redemption for the team following their heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2023 World Cup Final. England star Ella Toone's boyfriend, Joe Bunney, captured the sentiment of many fans when he posted on social media before the match: "Big day ahead. Redemption time. Come on girls."

The triumph marks a significant milestone in women's football, demonstrating the growing popularity and skill level of the women's game while inspiring a new generation of players and supporters. As celebrations continue throughout the nation, the focus has already begun to shift toward the next challenge: the 2027 World Cup, where the Lionesses will aim to complete their remarkable transformation from underdogs to world-beaters.

The historic victory has not only brought joy to millions of supporters but has also highlighted the important role that sport plays in uniting communities and inspiring positive change. With royal backing and national pride behind them, the Lionesses have cemented their place as true sporting heroes and ambassadors for women's football worldwide.