Euro 2025: England, the current champions, secure their spot in the tournament after a tense goalless draw in Sweden.

England secured their place in the 2025 Women’s European Championship after a tense 0-0 draw with Sweden in Gothenburg. The Lionesses knew that only a Swedish victory would knock them into the qualifying play-offs, and they held on under significant pressure in the closing stages.

Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, chosen ahead of Mary Earps, made several crucial saves to keep a clean sheet and ensure England’s qualification. This result also marked the reigning European champions’ first-ever competitive point on Swedish soil.

England started the game strongly, but they struggled to create clear-cut chances against Zecira Musovic in the Swedish goal. Their best opportunity came when Alessia Russo almost connected with a fantastic cross from Georgia Stanway in the opening 20 minutes.

The hosts found it difficult to break free from England’s high press, with their counter-attacks consistently snuffed out. However, despite their dominance in possession and territory, the Lionesses couldn’t convert their advantage into goals.

In the 37th minute, Stanway broke the deadlock with a low strike from close range, giving England their first shot on target in the match. Sweden responded immediately with two quick chances of their own, but they failed to find the back of the net.

After the break, Hampton was called into action, making a sharp diving save to deny Filippa Angeldahl. Muscovic also made a comfortable save from Lucy Bronze’s header as the game started to open up.

Midway through the second half, England had a scare when Leah Williamson made a sliding challenge on Rosa Kafaji in the box. However, Kafaji chose to stay on her feet, sparing England from conceding a penalty.

There were more nervy moments for England as Hampton spilled a deflected cross, but she managed to recover and prevent any danger. Angeldahl tested Hampton again with a long-range effort, but the England keeper held onto the shot.

Despite the late Swedish pressure, England regained their composure and saw out the match, securing their place in Euro 2025. It was a hard-fought qualification for the Lionesses, who will now turn their attention to the tournament and aim to defend their European title.