England Women cruised into the quarter-finals of the ongoing Women’s Euro 2025 championships with a dominant 6-1 victory over Wales, who exit their first major tournament after three consecutive group-stage defeats.
Sarina Wiegman’s side entered the match knowing a win would secure their place in the last eight, and they delivered with a ruthless display in St Gallen. Georgia Stanway opened the scoring from the penalty spot after a VAR review determined contact from Carrie Jones occurred inside the box.
Ella Toone added a second soon after, firing in the rebound from her own shot, before assisting goals for Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo to cap off a relentless first-half performance.
Though the second half lacked the same intensity, England remained in full control. Substitute Beth Mead twisted past Josephine Green to slot home a fifth, and Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones got on the scoresheet late on after setting up Mead’s goal.
Wales, making their debut at a major tournament, were given a harsh lesson in the levels required to compete at the top. However, Hannah Cain gave their fans a moment to savour with a thunderous second-half strike, sparking huge celebrations behind the goal.
England’s Statement of Intent
This was about getting the job done, and England did so with style. Despite Wales’ attempts to turn up the pressure pre-match, the Lionesses were calm, creative, and clinical from the first whistle.
After bouncing back from an opening defeat to France and edging past the Netherlands, England didn’t let the possibility of finishing second distract them. With their qualification on the line, they played with the confidence of a team chasing back-to-back major final appearances.
Wiegman’s side will now face sixth-ranked Sweden in the quarter-finals on Thursday, a major test but one they’ll enter with renewed belief and momentum.
Wales Bow Out with Lessons and Pride
Wales knew their chances were slim, and despite pre-match fighting words from manager Rhian Wilkinson, they were outclassed on the night. A brief first-half threat came through Rachel Rowe and Angharad James, while Cain’s brilliant strike was a consolation in an otherwise painful exit.
Still, there was pride. This was a historic tournament for Wales, and their fans—vocal, passionate, and ever-present—made their mark across Switzerland. The experience of facing elite teams like France, the Netherlands, and England will prove invaluable for the growth of Welsh women’s football.
Standout Performers
Ella Toone was England’s standout, combining intelligent movement with creativity and composure. Her partnership with Alessia Russo caused constant problems. Lauren James again lit up the game before being subbed off to a standing ovation. Olivia Clark, Wales’ goalkeeper, was a bright spot in a tough evening, making several excellent saves to keep the scoreline respectable. Jess Fishlock, Wales’ most experienced player, registered the assist for Cain and has been involved in both of their tournament goals.
Key Stats
Georgia Stanway has now scored all 10 of her penalties for England (excluding shootouts), including three in major tournaments. England enjoyed 79% first-half possession and had 35 touches inside Wales’ box. Beth Mead has now been directly involved in 14 goals in 14 major tournament appearances. Jess Fishlock assisted both of Wales’ goals at Euro 2025.
What’s Next?
England: Face Sweden in the quarter-finals in Zurich on Thursday at 20:00 BST. Wales: Their maiden major tournament journey ends at the group stage, but the experience will be crucial for their continued development.