Show only key events Please enable JavaScript to use this feature Things you like to see: Wow just heard on the radio that the Tottenham Women’s U15/16 set up had four places to fill during trials in May/June this year and 2,000 applicants — Adam Crafton (@AdamCrafton_) July 31, 2022 Ah go on then, you twisted my arm. I’m biased because he plays for my team, but Russo, well. The first time I saw her, it felt obvious that she was a player, an unusual combination of skill, physicality, imagination and attitude, and at only 23, she has so much room for improvement. I suppose there will be those who would like to see Alexia Russo replace Ellen White, but that’s silly for two reasons:
- He may not score goals, but White remains crucial to how England play. She pushes, puts herself in and clears goal lanes for teammates.
- Imagine the physical and mental deterioration of dealing with White, Mead, Hemp and Kirby for an hour and then someone as bright, grooved and fresh as Russo comes along. Wiegman’s ability to influence games off the bench is a big part of what got England here. Back at Sky, we wonder what line-up Sarina Wiegman might pick to start today. I know! He made a total of 0 changes during the competition, even with England in the group with a game to spare, so it’s not hard to predict what will happen today. And how refreshing this is: a manager choosing his side, instead of compromising, fearing his opponents. And here’s another piece about Popp that I loved, touching on the feeling of watching someone as special as her for the first time. The first time I saw Alex Popp play live was one of the most eye-opening experiences of my life. Six years later, he’s still bulldozing through defenses https://t.co/IoJpxaGhbo — JPH (@jessyjph) July 28, 2022 I have to admit, I’m a little surprised at how much Millie Bright has improved, but she – and Leah Williamson – have their work cut out for them today. Alex Popp has done incredibly well these past few weeks, even if you forget about her terrible luck with injuries. But if we take into account the loss of Euro 2013 and 2017. that he was injured again at the beginning of this year, before contracting Covid in June. then her work these last few weeks is just funny. Here’s Anita Asante on it: It’s a gray morning in Norf Lahndahn, but Sue Smith and Karen Bardsley are on Sky and brightening it up. “It’s like Christmas,” says Bardsley, taking us through the strict standards of fish finger preparation required by England alongside the pre-match meal. I’ll also share some of the best writing I’ve seen during the tournament – and on women’s football in general – starting with this review and extract from Suzanne Wrack’s excellent book on the subject.
Preamble
Are you sitting uncomfortably? Then we’ll start. Regardless of where you say the journey began, it’s been a long time coming here. But we are finally here, and what a celebration awaits us today. If only Grace Shibert could see us now! Sibbert founded Dick, Kerr Ladies in 1921, the team went on to play in front of crowds in excess of 51,000 raising colossal sums of money for working class causes… so the FA, in power, banned it, deeming football “Suitably unfit for women”. But since then, the work, sacrifice and talent of heroic pioneers like Gillian Coultard, Marianne Spacey, Hope Powell, Anita Asante, Fara Williams and Kelly Smith have brought us to this point. Tomorrow, the challenge will be to move forward – more girls playing, more girls watching and from more diverse backgrounds – but today is about today. And we could hardly hope for a better matchup to glorify it. Although Spain and France deserve our gratitude – who knows where they would be if the former had not lost Alexia Putellas and Jenni Hermoso, the latter Marie-Antoinette Katoto – but England and Germany were brilliant, expansive when they managed to it is also the nails when it should be. They’ve earned everything by being at this stage, and anyone who claims to know what’s next is lying. So over the next few hours we’ll be looking back at a thrilling contest, looking at what should be a great final and generally enjoying all there is to enjoy. Here you go!