By Nicole Powell
England rediscovered their dominant spirit with a 6-1 defeat of Wales in the 2025 UEFA Women’s Euro on Sunday night, turning what had been a nervy campaign into a statement of intent.
After an opening-day slip-up against France and an impressive 4-0 win over the Netherlands, the Lionesses dismantled the Welsh in St. Gallen thanks to a display of attacking brilliance.
Stanway penalty sets tone
Just 13 minutes in, Georgia Stanway calmly converted a VAR‑awarded penalty to break the deadlock.
Minutes later, Ella Toone nodded home a rebound, and soon after Lauren Hemp powered in a header to make it 3-0 before the half-hour mark.
Alessia Russo then added a clinical fourth before the break, leaving Wales reeling.
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Tactical reshuffle sparks fluidity
Sarina Wiegman’s decision to shift Toone into a No.10 role and push Lauren James wide unlocked the attack on the night.
In the second half, Beth Mead weaved through the Welsh defence to add another, and Aggie Beever-Jones powered home a close-range header late on to round off the win.
Wales managed a consolation through a thunderous Hannah Cain strike, but by then England’s victory was beyond doubt.
Lionesses line up Sweden
The result secures second place in Group D and crucially avoids a clash with reigning world champions Spain.
On Thursday, July 17, England face Sweden in Zurich in a quarter-final repeat of their Euro 2022 semi-final.
The stage is set for another battle and, after Sunday’s demolition, the Lionesses will be brimming with confidence.
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