مدير عام كرة القدم
- England win epic quarter-final vs Sweden on penalties
- Bronze scores equaliser & winning penalty as Hampton shines
- Wiegman braced for elimination three times
England trailed Sweden by two goals early on but mounted a stunning late fightback to force penalties. Bronze and Michelle Agyemang scored in quick succession after key second-half substitutions turned the game in the Lionesses’ favour. In the shootout, Hampton produced two brilliant saves before the former Barcelona defender netted the winning spot-kick.
Speaking to the media, Wiegman said of Hampton: “Today I thought about three times we were out. She didn’t have doubters in our bubble. I think she had a very impressive performance. She had some very good saves in the second halves. She had one penalty on the right side that was an incredible save. Pretty big contribution today.”
On Bronze, the Lionesses boss added: “Lucy Bronze is one of a kind and I have never seen anybody like her before in my life. There are so many amazing players but what she does and her mentality – the goal, penalty at the far post. That’s what defines her – her resilience and fight. The only way to get her off the pitch is in a wheelchair.”
Wiegman’s tactical changes once again proved decisive as England showed their trademark resilience on the biggest stage. However, some of the blame for Sweden’s loss lies on their own shoulders as they had the perfect opportunity to win the tie when they sent up their star goalkeeper, Jennifer Falk, to take the pivotal penalty, which she ultimately missed.
England now progress to the Euro 2025 semi-finals, where they will meet Italy. Wiegman will be focused on recovery and preparation after an emotionally and physically draining quarter-final. With momentum behind them, the Lionesses are eyeing another historic run.
