The Lionesses are back in business! England’s women’s football team reignited their UEFA European Women’s Championship defence in spectacular fashion, thrashing the Netherlands 4-0 in Zürich. After a disappointing loss to France, Sarina Wiegman’s side showed true champion spirit, delivering a performance that’s sent ripples across Europe—and captured the attention of Kenyan football fans eager to see who lifts the prestigious trophy.
England Strike Early: Lauren James Leads the Charge
Kenyan fans who stayed up to watch this clash were rewarded with fireworks from the start. Just four minutes in, Lauren Hemp whipped in a teasing cross that Lauren James narrowly headed wide. England’s intent was clear, with Alessia Russo also spurning an early chance from close range.
But the breakthrough arrived midway through the first half. Keeper Hannah Hampton launched a clever pass to Russo, who battled her way into the box and picked out James. With the kind of technique Kenya’s Harambee Starlets would envy, James cut inside and rifled home a superb opener.
Dutch Struggles and Stanway’s Screamer
Despite boasting dangerous players like Jill Roord, the Netherlands barely threatened in the first half, save for Roord’s wild effort over the bar.
England kept their foot on the gas. Just before halftime, a half-cleared free-kick fell to Georgia Stanway. Her thunderous strike, deflected past Daphne van Domselaar, made it 2-0 and had England’s travelling fans in Zürich bouncing.
James Double and Russo’s Heroics
Dutch coach Andries Jonker tried to turn things around with three halftime changes. However, England continued to dominate. Although Russo’s early header was ruled out for offside, the Lionesses extended their lead when Ella Toone’s mishit shot fell kindly to James, who calmly slotted her second goal.
With 25 minutes left, England struck again. Russo surged forward, held off Dutch defenders, and set up Toone for a tidy finish to seal the 4-0 victory. Russo might not have scored herself, but her three assists were as good as any goals.
What This Means for England—and Kenya’s Football Fans
For Kenyan football fans watching the UEFA Women’s Championship, England’s emphatic win keeps them firmly in the race for the knockout stages. A win over Wales will likely see them through, while the Netherlands now face a must-win clash against France.
This thrilling tournament has showcased not only Europe’s finest women’s talent but also the growing popularity of women’s football globally, including here in Kenya, where fans increasingly follow the Lionesses and other European stars.
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