Feel The Roar

In a breathtaking final that showcased everything good about women's football; England overcame the odds yet again to triumph over the best team in the world Spain; in a thrilling penalty shootout victory. It did not look so early on; as after a bright start by England; it was Spain who seemed to settle into control; stroking the ball around with the term 'passing England to death' coming into the consciousness.

Not surprisingly; they took the lead midway through the first half; when a 'Martin Odegaard-style' of inter-passing saw arguably the best right-back in the world Ona Batlle spiking up a perfect cross for Mariona Caldentey to head home into the side netting. Spain then seemed to take control; and you wondered if the final was in fact gonna be over.

Credit to England though; this group of Lionesses never give up. Substitute Chloe Kelly seems to make England more dangerous every time she comes on; and another of her teasing crosses was brilliantly headed home by England's 'Graeme Sharp' - Alessia Russo; to put England back on level terms on the hour mark. In the end; you could see Spain was more frustrated and that showed in the penalties; as they seemed to couldn't believe how they had not won this. And Chloe Kelly's unorthodox run-up & final blast seemed to exemplify that England had the better confidence.

The difference with the men seems clear. While Spain is indeed the best team in the world - as explained by Irene Paredes' frustrated claim that England were 'lucky'; England had the best grit and the best teamwork; traits that can move mountains in football. While the men were mired in Lampard-Gerrard shenanigans; tabloid WAGS & over-pressure and Chris Waddle/Gareth Southgate balloons; the Lionesses showed that belief and determination can conquer all in football. In short; they showed the men exactly how it's done. Even Luis Rubiales couldn't spoil the show.