From grassroots to European glory: How the Lionesses lit up football — and the future

On Sunday night, the Lionesses didn’t just roar to victory on penalties — they changed the game. Again.

England were fired to European glory in a 3-1 win against Spain, with Chloe Kelly netting the winning spot-kick.

After the final whistle blew and England lifted the trophy in Basel, a generation of young girls looked up and saw what’s possible: footballing greatness.

The victory was powered not only by talent – but by tenacity, teamwork, and the belief that every dream matters.

And at E.ON, we couldn’t be prouder to stand behind the champions of Europe.

Because this was not just a victory won under stadium lights.

This win began years ago on muddy pitches, in quiet parks and under flickering floodlights – where football isn’t about fame, but about friendship, focus, and fierce ambition.

That’s why our partnership with England Football and the Greener Game programme now matters more than ever.

The Long road to the top – and the grassroots that got them there

Every Lioness once started where so many young girls are right now: a borrowed kit, a dedicated coach, a local club that gave them a shot.

It’s why E.ON launched The Pass – a campaign celebrating the voices of girls at grassroots level, each one saying the same truth: “Without grassroots football, there are no Lionesses.”

That’s not just a soundbite. It’s the foundation for the kind of success the Lionesses roared to last night.

And it’s why England Football and E.ON Next are investing £1.5million every year into making sure grassroots clubs don’t just survive – they thrive.

Through the Greener Game, we are helping local clubs save energy, slash bills and reinvest in the things that matter: kits, coaches, and creating safe, inclusive spaces for future stars.

From solar panels and energy audits to battery storage and expert guidance, we’re working with clubs across the country – and the impact is very real.

Pilot clubs alone are saving up to 25% on energy bills. That’s money going straight back into the game.

More than just football – a movement for the future

The Lionesses’ win will echo for years.

Not just in stadiums or headlines, but in the hearts of communities where girls will now lace up with belief.

As former Lioness Anita Asante said of the Greener Game: “It’s about empowering clubs to take small yet meaningful steps towards sustainability.”

Because every energy-efficient clubhouse and floodlit pitch is another reason a young girl can keep playing.

It’s another way communities come together; another step towards a more inclusive, more sustainable game.

We’re not just celebrating – we’re committing

To every coach who's never given up.

To every parent who’s stood in the rain.

To every girl who dares to dream… this win is yours.

And we’ll keep doing our part by helping to build a game that’s greener, fairer and, most importantly, ready for the next generation.

Congratulations, Lionesses. You didn’t just make history – you lit the way forward.

To learn more about the Greener Game, click here.