Chloe Kelly Seals Her Legacy in England’s Gritty Euro Triumph

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In a dramatic showdown in Basel, Switzerland, Chloe Kelly delivered once again when it mattered most, cementing her place in England’s football history with a powerful penalty that clinched the Women’s European Championship for the second consecutive time.

The 27-year-old forward’s moment of glory came after months of uncertainty. Just six months prior, Kelly’s place in Sarina Wiegman’s UEFA (Union of European Football Associations) Euro squad was in doubt. Struggling for playing time at Manchester City and openly seeking a transfer, her career appeared to be in limbo. But football can be unforgiving and redemptive all at once, and for Kelly, her arc at this tournament proved both.

It was a penalty shootout against Spain where Kelly’s nerve and technique shone brightest. Her unique run-up left leg lifted, a skip onto her right ended in a thunderous strike into the top corner of the net. “Incredible game of football. I just came onto the pitch and wanted to make something happen,” Kelly said. “Of course, taking the penalty, I actually missed three in training yesterday, (but) it’s the belief in this squad, I’m really proud to be English right now and proud to be part of an amazing group of girls.”

Kelly first rose to hero status in England’s 2022 Euro victory at Wembley, famously netting the winner in extra time and celebrating with a now-iconic shirt-twirling moment. In Switzerland, she reinforced her reputation. She scored in the shootout win over Sweden in the quarter-finals and was relentless in the semi-final, converting her own rebound after a missed penalty against Italy. “I was cool, I was composed and I knew I was going to hit the back of the net. I don’t miss penalties twice,” she added, referencing her decisive kick in the final.

Her road to redemption began with a loan to Arsenal following a difficult stint at City. “I’m so grateful to be out the back end,” Kelly said. “But if that’s a story to tell someone that maybe experiences something the same that tough times don’t last. Thank to everyone who wrote me off. I’m grateful.”

Sarina Wiegman, England’s Head Coach, offered an emotional embrace to Kelly post-match. “Everybody brings something different and she brings this,” Wiegman said. “She has been fighting to come back and to be at her highest level. She really wanted to take that penalty of course, and celebrate that.”

Never one to shy away from the moment, Kelly joined the England fans in singing “Sweet Caroline” before her TV interview. “It is going to be crazy,” she said of their return. “I hope the whole of England comes out to support us and shows their love to these girls as they deserve it.”

The Lionesses, England’s women’s national football team, were narrowly defeated by Spain in the 2023 FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) Women’s World Cup Final. This year’s Euro victory is more than redemption; it’s a statement of enduring grit and belief. “It’s a huge moment. Every girl out there with that dream, you can do it,” Kelly said. “Keep shooting for the stars.”