England women return home to hero's welcome after Euro win

England's Lionesses returned to a heroes' welcome on Monday, less than 24 hours after their dramatic penalty-shootout victory against world champions Spain in the Euro 2025 final.

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Chloe Kelly converted the decisive spot-kick in the Swiss city of Basel as Sarina Wiegman's team successfully defended the European women's crown they won at Wembley in 2022.

Supporters, many of whom were dressed in England kits and holding flags, cheered as they waited outside Southend airport, about 40 miles (64 kilometres) east of London.

In a post on X, the team shared a photo of the trophy draped in an England flag on a seat on the plane, which had “Home” painted in red letters on its side.

The aircraft was welcomed with a water salute from two fire engines after landing. Captain Leah Williamson and manager Wiegman were the first off, with the skipper proudly holding the trophy.

Among the waiting supporters were twins Poppy and Daisy Macdonald, II, who were holding a sign asking for a photo with star striker Alessia Russo.

“We're so proud. They've won it two times in a row and they've worked so hard for it,” said Poppy. “They've had a lot of injuries and setbacks but they've done really well.”