Ian Wright had some emotional, yet brilliant words to say after England’s win against Sweden
Ian Wright gave an emotional, yet excellent, speech as England beat Sweden 4-0 to reach the final of Euro 2022.
Beth Mead gave the Lionesses the lead in the first half before Lucy Bronze doubled their advantage with a header shortly after the break.
Alessia Russo scored the goal of the night – and maybe the tournament – with an audacious back-heel while Fran Kirby put the icing on the cake with a superb dinked effort.
What can you say about that?!
#BBCFootball #BBCEuros
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 26, 2022
The win means England have reached their first major tournament final since 2009 and are now just 90 minutes from writing their name into folklore forever.
‘We’ve got to make sure they are able to play and get the opportunity’
As the BBC dissected the action on a fantastic night at Bramall Lane, both Wright and England legend Alex Scott couldn’t hide their emotions and pride at the performance.
Wright in particular stressed the importance that this game will have for the long-term future of women’s football and called for schools to give women the chance to be allowed to play football from a young age, regardless of how the result turns out on Sunday.
“Whatever happens in the final, if girls are not allowed to play football just like the boys can in their PE after this tournament, then what are we doing?” he said.
“We’ve got to make sure they are able to play and get the opportunity because this because this is going to inspire a lot of people.
“If there’s no legacy to all this, then what are we doing? This is as proud as I’ve ever felt of any England side. This is what it’s about.”
I
@IanWright0 so much. #ENG #ENGSWE pic.twitter.com/3G2QGRXKnn
— Sooz Kempner (@SoozUK) July 26, 2022
England will play the winner of Germany and France on Sunday at Wembley Stadium, where it is expected to be a full-capacity crowd.
Related links:
- England reach Euros final after audacious goal from Alessia Russo
- England progress to Euro 2022 semi-final thanks to Georgia Stanway stunner
- Leaked image of England World Cup away kit suggests it’s coming home
