Why Lucy Bronze’s Strapping Scene Is Already an Iconic Women’s Football Moment

At this point, the Lionesses making history is almost expected. But England’s equally remarkable and chaotic Euro 2025 quarter-final against Sweden proved, once again, why we keep watching.

Down 2–0 past half time and hopes of making the semi-finals fading fast, England pulled off the unthinkable: Lucy Bronze kickstarted the comeback in the 79th minute, Michelle Agyemang equalised with the composure that truly belies belief, and Chloe Kelly, barely having hit the pitch, set up both goals. Hannah Hampton's nerves of steal were widely and rightly applauded, while captain Leah Williamson’s ankle injury struck fear in the hearts of many. Still, play continued. The game rolled into a wild shootout: 14 penalties, 9 misses, blood on the pitch, and Bronze sealing the win with a rocket-speed finish. (The third fastest goal of the tournament, according to BBC Sport.)

But one moment stood apart. While goalkeeper Hannah Hampton was being treated for a bloody nose, Bronze, tight-thighed but otherwise unfazed, strapped up her own thigh, completely solo. (She later removed the fastening to secure that penalty shot.)

@england BATTLING ALL OVER THE PITCH.