Beyond the dated stereotypes, England’s sporting identity is now fluid and up for debate, and the Lionesses’ durability can help shape it
Y
ou can understand why the Lionesses needed a new catchphrase. Three years ago, when they won the Euros at Wembley, they effectively retired: “It’s coming home.” So this tournament it’s all been about “proper England”, a mantra so versatile you can use it for just about anything that’s taken place during their Euro 2025 campaign.
Georgia Stanway drills one in from the edge of the penalty area? Proper England. Hannah Hampton makes a save with a bloodied wad up her nose? Proper England. Leah Williamson launches a Blue Peter badge? That’s proper England, that is.
It’s a relatable phrase because it seems to embody English football (including its fandom) so smartly, combining solid street slang with a sophisticated hint of irony. And the great thing is, no matter the result on Sunday, it will function perfectly for the denouement. Stealing a European Championship win from a better team at the last feasible moment is absolutely proper England. But then so is burgling your way to a major tournament final and being outplayed by Spain.
