NERVY England supporters are feeling the tension in packed out fan zones and pubs as the Euros final heads to extra time tonight.
Despite falling 1-0 down in the first half, the Lionesses bounced back to settle the match at 1-1 against Spain.
Spain’s Mariona Caldentey had put a dent into England’s hopes in the 25th minute, scoring a header past keeper Hannah Hampton.
However, Alessia Russo struck back in the 57th minute with a header of her own, putting the tie back on equal terms.
Now, the match is heading into extra time, giving both teams just 30 minutes to make a run for the title – or it will head to a penalty shoot-out.
The Lionesses are hoping to defend their Euros title – having beaten Germany 2-1 in the 2022 final.
The Euro 2025 final kicked off in Basel, Switzerland, at 5pm UK time.
Fans across the country, aided by an pub licences being extended until 1am today, have flocked to their local boozer to cheer on the team.
However, supporters could be seen holding their heads in concern after Spain took the lead.
The game is being broadcast on both BBC One and ITV1 for fans at home.
Countless English fans made the journey out to Basel for the final, with many spotted kitted out in merch as they celebrated kick-off in fan zones close to the stadium.
Those eagerly awaiting kick off could be seen donning England tops as they waved flags earlier today.
Others had brought cardboard cutouts and posters for their favourite players.
One fan could be seen carrying a cutout of team manager Sarina Weigman, while another carried Jill Scott.
Wrapped in St George’s flag, some fans have even painted the flag on their faces.
Prince William, the patron of the Football Association, is in Switzerland with Princess Charlotte to cheer the team on.
In a message on Saturday, the Prince of Wales said: “Good luck to the Lionesses tomorrow.
“The nation is so proud you are through to the final, after some stunning comebacks! We are all cheering you on! W.”
Tensions are building as the team previously lost 1-0 to Spain in the 2023 World Cup Final.
However, the England team have demonstrated a strong winning streak throughout the tournament.
In a tense game against Italy, they clawed back a 1-0 losing streak, to go on to win 2-1 in the final minutes of the match.
It cemented 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang as England’s breakout star of the tournament.
The Lionesses have shown their prowess on the field, as the team prepare for tonight’s all-important game.
Captain Leah Williamson said that the team were refusing to let fear dictate their approach to football.
She said: “If you’re fearful of losing, then even if you do win, do you enjoy that experience. Do you fully take it in?”
Wiliamson added: “I think this team is so task-focused. Whatever is in our way, we’ll try and overcome that together. I don’t think we’re a team fearful of losing.”
Spain are currently the favourites to win after claiming the Nations League title in 2024.
However, England fans are ready to cheer on their team in the hopes that they come out on top.
Two fans at Boxpark Wembley told The Sun their predictions for the game.
Siblings Toby, 23 and Poppy, 20 from Winchester had opposing views, with Toby feeling that England would win the match 1-0.
“I hope we win but I think it will be 2-0 to Spain.”
Speaking about tonight’s game, Williamson said: “Hopefully the best is yet to come.”
It comes after the Home Office confirmed that licensing hours would be extended across England and Wales, allowing pubs to stay open until 1m.
Announcing the news, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “I want to wish the best of luck to (manager) Sarina Weigman and the England squad, who we hope will bring it home once again and continue on as champions of Europe.”
Pub licensing hours can be relaxed for events of “exceptional national significance” with both the semi-final and final of the Euros included under this umbrella term.
The same extension was allowed earlier this week when the Lionesses played Italy in the semi-final on Tuesday.
It gave Brits plenty of time to celebrate after the team won 2-1 during extra time.
In an exhilarating final few minutes, the team clawed back from a 1-0 loss after Michelle Agyemang scored in the 96th minute, leading England to win 2-1 during extra time.
The British Beer and Pub Association has estimated that pub-goers will buy a million extra pints during the final, which could boost the economy by £5 million.
