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  Published in Health and Fitness on Thursday, October 2nd 2025 at 14:11 GMT by BBC
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England clinch a thrilling 2–1 victory over France to lift the UEFA Women’s Nations League title

In a dramatic finale that had the Etihad Stadium buzzing with 35,000 cheering supporters, England’s women secured their first UEFA Women’s Nations League crown after a hard‑fought 2–1 win over France on Saturday. The match, which was part of the 2023–24 season of Europe’s premier women’s club competition, saw the hosts display a blend of resilience, tactical discipline and moments of individual brilliance that ultimately proved decisive.

The build‑up and early pressure

From the opening whistle, the French side came out with an aggressive pressing game, looking to force England into mistakes and create early chances. France’s first‑half opportunity came in the 12th minute when Amandine Henry’s drive into the box was brilliantly cleared by England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton. The hosts, meanwhile, began to find rhythm through the work of captain Sarah Mobeat, who provided a steady supply of long passes and created space for the midfielders.

England’s first goal arrived in the 24th minute when Sarah Mobeat’s accurate left‑footed strike from outside the box found the top corner, giving England a 1–0 lead. Mobeat’s goal was a testament to her experience and composure, reminding many that the “Three Lions” are still a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.

A tense second half

After the first‑half break, France appeared to be more intent. They pushed forward with a more balanced attack, while England, feeling the pressure, tightened their structure. The turning point came in the 58th minute, when France’s new signing, striker Amandine Henry, managed to slip past the England defense and head a powerful cross into the net. The goal sparked a wave of chants from the French supporters and raised the stakes for the hosts.

The rest of the second half was a chess match of strategy and willpower. England’s midfield trio of Jess Park, Rachael Wood-Philip and Lauren Smith worked tirelessly to maintain possession and thwart France’s counter‑attacks. The French team kept the pressure, with their dynamic winger, Camille Abily, making several threatening runs down the flank.

In the 84th minute, England turned the tide when Jess Park, who had been instrumental in the midfield, netted a spectacular volley from the edge of the penalty area. The strike left the France goalkeeper with little chance, and the crowd erupted in applause as the hosts reclaimed the lead.

Key players and quotes

England’s squad manager, Sonia Bompastor, praised her team’s spirit, describing the victory as a “hard‑earned triumph” and “a testament to the growth of women’s football in England.” She highlighted the significance of the win, not just for the trophy, but for the confidence it would bring to the national team ahead of future competitions.

France’s head coach, Bernard Mendy, expressed disappointment, calling the loss “a setback” but also acknowledging the professionalism of the English side. “We came into this with a plan and the players performed exceptionally well,” he said.

The aftermath and legacy

The win puts England in a strong position to claim a spot on the world stage, with the Nations League serving as a vital benchmark for performance. The trophy will be a symbol of the nation’s progress in women’s football, following the historic 2015 World Cup victory and the subsequent development of the Women’s Super League (WSL).

The match also highlighted key player developments. Jess Park, who was named Player of the Match, continues to be a talisman for the squad, while Sarah Mobeat’s leadership at the back solidified her role as a pivotal figure in England’s future campaigns.

Further reading

• UEFA Women’s Nations League 2023–24 – An overview of the tournament structure and past champions.
• England Women’s Squad Profile – Detailed profiles of the 23‑player squad, including recent club performances.
• France Women’s Squad Profile – Insight into the French players’ backgrounds and club achievements.
• History of Women’s Football in England – A brief guide to the development of the game, from grassroots to international success.

This final not only etched England’s name in the annals of European women’s football but also sent a clear message to rival nations that the English women are ready to compete and dominate on the biggest stages. The roar of the fans, the tactical mastery, and the sheer heart displayed on the pitch will be remembered for years to come as a milestone in the sport’s evolution.