England thrashes Sweden to book spot in Women's Euro 2022 final

 

England will either face Germany or France in the final of the UEFA Women's Euro 2022 final on Sunday

SHEFFIELD: England defeated four-time Olympic champion Sweden in the semi-final of the Women's Euro 2022 event to go to their first major women's tournament final since 2009.

The Lionesses, who under manager Sarina Wiegman extended their unbeaten streak to 19 games, will play either Germany or France for the championship on July 31 at Wembley.

At Bramall Lane, the game was exciting from beginning to end as Sweden applied pressure in the first 25 minutes before England dismantled them with merciless finishing and a touch of flair.

Substitute Only 11 minutes after coming on, Alessia Russo created magic once more when her exquisite backheel put it 3-0 for England.

Defending player Lucy Bronze headed in a second goal after Golden Boot leader Beth Mead had given England the lead against the odds in the first half.

Fran Kirby added the final flourish to the rout when she chipped Hedvig Lindahl's helpless goalkeeper.

Stina Blackstenius was often denied by England goalkeeper Mary Earps, with the best save coming early in the second half when she reacted to tip a looping attempt from close range just inches over the crossbar.

Before Mead's first goal, Blackstenius had already struck the crossbar, and from that point on, England's superb attacking depth was on display.

The Lionesses' victory ended a 13-year absence from a major event final, and they are the favourites to win the trophy at Wembley on Sunday.