Late goals from Millie Bright and Fran Kirby sealed a first senior trophy on home soil since 1966 and a first trophy since 2019 as England overcame Germany at Molineux.
It was the perfect start for the hosts as the ever reliable Ellen White got on the end of Fran Kirby’s through ball to slot past Merle Throhms in the German net in the 15th minute, her 49th England goal.
It was all England throughout the first half, a plethora of chances created but often squandered by a poor final ball or solid defending from the visitors. England’s goal difference predicament was clear as Serina Weigman’s side needed to win by two goals to take the crown.
The Lioness’ confidence was quashed within five minutes of the first half, Germany took control and Lina Magull’s free kick highlighted their good play as it flicked in off the cross bar.
Half time saw the teams go in equal, after a strong start had raised the hopes of the 13000 in attendance.
England came out as strong as they’d started, a goal now necessary to take the top spot following Spain’s win earlier in the day. Weigman’s side made of the most of the space out wide, working the ball down the flanks often but struggling to find a free player in the German box.
The night grew tenser as the game went on, Spain clearly hopeful of a third draw in three for England and a continuation of the Lionesses’ unwanted record of 26 home games without a win over their opponents, with England never having beaten Die Nationalelf on home soil.
A draw looked likely, but joint top scorer Millie Bright found the ball at her feet seven yards from goal and slotted it past the keeper to put England in the lead with seven minutes to go. As it stood, England were winning the Arnold Clark Cup on yellow cards.
A tense finish and nervous silence was broken when Molinuex erupted following Fran Kirby’s run from her own half and deflected striker off the goalkeeper settled the tournament outright. Kirby’s 94th minute goal meant that England were champions.
The inaugural Arnold Clark cup was won by the hosts on the final day, jubilation sparked throughout the home of Wolverhampton Wanderers and a historic night written into the history books.
