Jess Fishlock is choosing to focus on the positives despite Wales' likely exit from Euro 2025. The midfielder achieved two milestones in the 4-1 defeat to France: scoring Wales' first-ever goal at a major tournament and becoming the oldest woman to score at the European Championships at 38 years and 176 days.
Wales' chances of progressing in the tournament are slim after the defeat in St. Gallen. To advance, they would need to beat England in their final Group D game and secure a nine-goal swing in goal difference.
Fishlock acknowledged her personal achievements but emphasized the importance of her team. "I couldn't get these accolades without my entire team behind me," she stated, adding, "I'm very grateful, and maybe after the tournament, I'll let that sink in a little bit".
Despite the scoreline against France, Fishlock expressed pride in her team's performance. "I am extremely proud of these girls," she said. "I think there were moments and for most of the game we were in it, we were kind of doing exactly what we were expecting to do". She believes the team is close to competing with top sides, noting, "And I think the biggest learning from us in this entire tournament so far is the little moments we just have to be a little bit better at...But we're so close. I'm so proud of this group".
Wales' coach, Rhian Wilkinson, echoed Fishlock's sentiments, expressing her pride in the team's courage and bravery.
Looking ahead, Fishlock stressed the importance of learning from the experience. Following their opening 3-0 defeat to the Netherlands, she urged the team to "take what we need to take from it, move forward and throw the rest in the bin". Fishlock, Wales' most capped player and all-time leading goalscorer, remains confident that a top-two finish was within reach if the team could quickly move on from the loss to the Netherlands. "I know us as a group, we will refocus, we will learn really fast and we're really excited to get back on the field," she said.
Fishlock's perspective reflects a blend of disappointment and optimism. While the Euro 2025 campaign has been challenging, she is choosing to focus on the positives, including her personal milestones and the team's overall progress. Her leadership and belief in the team remain strong as Wales prepares for their final group game against England.
