England's Lionesses have received a significant boost ahead of their Euro 2025 final against Spain, with news that Lauren James is likely to be fit for the match. The Chelsea star had been a doubt after being forced off in the semi-final victory over Italy with an ankle injury.
James was substituted at halftime during England's semi-final victory over Italy on Tuesday with an ankle injury and was seen applying ice to her injury during the match. The Lionesses have been sweating on the fitness of their playmaker.
However, in a positive turn of events, James participated in England's final training session in Zurich on Saturday, raising hopes that she will be available to start against Spain. England coach Sarina Wiegman acknowledged on Friday that James was still recovering but remained optimistic she could play a part in Sunday's final. “We had 23 players on the pitch today and everyone came through,” Wiegman said on the eve of the final. “So if everyone recovers well then we have 23 players available for tomorrow. I think we have many players that can impact and we know that she can have an impact too so that'd be nice.” Wiegman had said, "She's still recovering. She's doing things on the pitch and we have two more days so we're going to give her time." She added, "I don't know yet [if she'll be ready], but that's what we're going to go for, 23 players available for the game on Sunday."
James has started every match in the tournament so far, and her presence in the final would be a major lift for England. She has been a continuous threat and also scored an impressive brace in the 4-0 victory over the Netherlands.
If James is unable to start, England are expected to choose between Beth Mead and Chloe Kelly to replace her on the right. Mead started the opening game in the position and replaced James at half-time on Tuesday, but Kelly has made her case with decisive contribution from the bench in both knockout matches.
The Lionesses will face Spain in the Euro 2025 final on Sunday at St. Jakob-Park in Basel. This will be a repeat of the 2023 World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0. Recent meetings between these sides have been close, so expect drama, tension, impactful substitutions, and to see an England team that fights until the end.
England's route to the final has been a rollercoaster, losing their opener to France, bouncing back with impressive wins against the Netherlands and Wales, then trailing Sweden and Italy deep into their knockout games. Spain, meanwhile, have been impressive from the off, scoring a record-equalling 14 goals in three group stage games. La Roja have found things a bit trickier in the knockouts but still progressed past hosts Switzerland and 2022 runners-up Germany to reach a first-ever UEFA Women's EURO final.
The match promises to be a fascinating encounter between two of the best teams in the world. England will be looking to defend their title, while Spain will be aiming to add another trophy to their collection after winning the World Cup.
