65,000 celebrate roaring success

THE Lionesses confessed they had not dreamt of the “surreal” scenes that greeted the Euro 2025 champions as 65,000 fans cheered their victory parade along The Mall to Buckingham Palace yesterday.

- By Adam Toms in The Mail

Star striker Alessia Russo, who scored the equaliser against Spain in Sunday’s Basel final, said she felt “tired, but on cloud nine”.

She added: “I mean this is just unreal. We didn’t really know what to expect coming into it but everyone was so excited on the bus and it feels so nice to come back to England and celebrate with our fans.

“It’s just a bit surreal. It’s crazy to see this many people come out...heading up to Buckingham Palace - it’s just crazy. I'd never have dreamt of anything like it.”

Skipper Leah Williamson said: “I’ve been crying all the way down The Mall. This is unbelievable, probably one of the best things we've ever, ever been a part of.”