How the World Cup is Bringing Women Together

Last summer, those who experienced the immense thrill of the women’s UEFA European Football Championship in 2022 and the incredible victory of the Lionesses, would find it difficult to comprehend that this year the support and excitement may be even greater – but it’s certainly heading that way.

The popularity and buzz around the World Cup has caused pubs and bars across the UK to overflow with football fans of all backgrounds and identities. However, this year in particular has seen thousands of women standing together in solidarity and support for the Lionesses.

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Whether it’s as a result of the Euro final success last year, or a progression of social attitudes towards women enjoying sports, more women than ever across the country are embracing the football fever and getting involved. Themed evenings out, charity events, networking groups and social gatherings are just a few of the events that have taken place in recent months, inspiring a sense of unity and togetherness, all in the lead up to the grand final on Sunday 20 August.

The UK isn’t the only country feeling the elation though – the past few weeks have seen ‘Matildas Mania’ in Australia. The Matildas (the Australian women’s football team) have garnered just as much support and community spirit as the Lionesses, with enthusiastic fans gathering in the thousands to cheer on their team.

The England v Australia semi-final match earlier this week broke records as 11.15 million Australians nationally tuned in to watch the game. However, it was the Lionesses who brought home victory with their immense win.

Following a 3-1 victory at Stadium Australia, the Lionesses have become the first England football team to qualify for the senior final in the World Cup in almost 60 years.

England manager Sarina Wiegman led the team for two years in the build-up to this historic moment, as the semi-final saw the team gradually take the lead. This follows the Lionesses’ win in the UEFA European Football Championship in 2022, where England was crowned European champions for the first time on home soil.

England was launched into the lead during the first half of the match when Ella Toone scored an impressive first-time strike in the top corner. The team managed to maintain control of the match into the second half until Australian player Sam Kerr scored a goal, bringing the score to 1-1.

However, it didn’t take long for England to take the lead once more, with Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo scoring two more goals in the second half of the match, putting the Lionesses firmly in the path of victory. Fans across the country were ecstatic to see yet another win for the Lionesses and are holding their breath for the upcoming final match against Spain.

The World Cup Final will take place on Sunday, 20 August with England (The Lionesses) versus Spain (La Roja) in an intense match that will see one country take the trophy. England has not won the World Cup since 1966, beating Germany to victory. If the Lionesses take this win, it will be the first victory for England in the World Cup – men or women’s - in nearly 60 years.

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