England's Hannah Hampton lauded the team's supporters for providing a crucial "little edge" during the penalty shootout against Sweden in the Euro 2025 quarter-final. The Lionesses emerged victorious with a 3-2 win on penalties after a tense match that ended 2-2 after extra time. Hampton, the Chelsea goalkeeper, played a pivotal role in the shootout, saving two penalties to help secure England's place in the semi-finals.

The match at the Letzigrund Stadium was a rollercoaster, with England initially falling behind to Sweden. Kosovare Asllani scored early for Sweden, and Stina Blackstenius doubled their lead, putting England's hopes of retaining their trophy in jeopardy. However, England mounted a late comeback, with Lucy Bronze scoring in the 79th minute and Michelle Agyemang adding another goal shortly after to send the game into extra time.

With the score still level after extra time, the game went to penalties. Despite England missing three consecutive penalties, Bronze's successful attempt put pressure on Sweden's Smilla Holmberg, who missed her shot, handing England the win. Hampton's heroics in the shootout were crucial, as she saved penalties from Filippa Angeldal and Sofia Jakobsson.

Hampton spoke to the BBC after the match, expressing her relief and happiness. "It all went so quick, we are all so happy and the fans were behind us and knew not to write us off," she said. She also acknowledged the stress of the shootout, saying, "It was stressful watching and playing, I thought every single time when I saved one that 'please score and give us a cushion', I feel so happy and relieved".

Hampton emphasized the importance of the fans' support during the shootout. "It helps you get the edge, push on and stretch extra for each save and I appreciated the support," she stated. She felt the backing from the fans gave her a boost, allowing her to push harder and make those crucial saves.

Notably, Hampton also sustained a bloody nose during the game after a collision in the box. Despite the injury, she remained focused and determined. "But I think I was better in the game when I had one nostril than when I was completely fine but just happy and relieved now," Hampton said. She brushed off the incident, joking about her history with nosebleeds and the team doctor.

England's victory was hard-fought, and Hampton's penalty shootout heroics, fueled by the support of the fans, were instrumental in securing their place in the Euro 2025 semi-finals. However, the Lionesses also face concerns as skipper Leah Williamson limped off with a possible ankle injury. "It wasn't about me and a game like that requires you to be at 100 per cent, but I don't know,” Williamson said regarding her injury.