England's Euro 2025 champions touched down to thunderous applause at Southend Airport on Monday, greeted by hundreds of flag-waving supporters in team jerseys after clinching their second consecutive European title. The triumphant Lionesses arrived aboard an aircraft emblazoned with the England crest and the word "Home," symbolizing their successful title defense abroad.
Skipper Leah Williamson led the squad down the gangway holding the championship trophy, accompanied by manager Sarina Wiegman. Players posed for photographs on the tarmac before traveling to 10 Downing Street, where Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner hosted a reception in their honor. The team presented a signed jersey and enjoyed refreshments in the garden of the official residence.
Rayner hailed the "fantastic feeling" of bringing the trophy home, declaring: "You've made us all so proud – a shining example of talent for women's football." Wiegman humorously apologized for "giving heart attacks" during England's nerve-shredding 3-1 penalty victory against Spain, secured by Chloe Kelly's decisive kick and two crucial saves from goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.
The historic win – witnessed by over 16 million UK viewers, making it 2025's most-watched broadcast – marks England's first major tournament victory on foreign soil. Celebrations continue Tuesday with an open-top bus parade along The Mall and a ceremony at Buckingham Palace's Queen Victoria Memorial.
Royal recognition poured in from King Charles III, who expressed the family's "warmest appreciation" and urged the squad to "bring home the 2027 World Cup." While Buckingham Palace explores hosting an autumn reception, Downing Street downplayed bank holiday requests, quipping: "If we had one every time the Lionesses win, we'd never go to work."
Royal Mail will commemorate the victory with special postmarks reading "It's Home. Again. Champions of Europe 2025" on all UK mail throughout the week, cementing the team's legacy in English sporting history.
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